Disinfection Of Environmental Surfaces Research Articles

Assessing effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection of equipment and environmental surfaces in cystic fibrosis clinics using an ATP assay.

Infection control guidelines for cystic fibrosis (CF) stress cleaning of environmental surfaces and patientcare equipment in CF clinics. This multicenter study measured cleanliness of frequently touched surfaces in CF clinics using an ATP bioluminescence assay to assess the effectiveness of cleaning/disinfection and the impact of feedback. Eight surfaces were tested across 19 clinics (10 pediatric, 9 adult) over 5 rounds of testing. Rounds 1 and 2 served as uncleaned baseline, and Round 3 occurring after routine cleaning. Rounds 4 and 5 were performed after feedback provided to staff and measured after cleaning. Pass rates defined as <250 relative light units were the primary outcome. Of the 750 tests performed, 72% of surfaces passed at baseline, and 79%, 83%, and 85% of surfaces passed in Rounds 3, 4, and 5, respectively. The overall pass-rate was significantly higher in adult compared to pediatric clinics (86% vs 71%; P < 0.001). In pediatric clinics, blood pressure equipment and computer keyboards in the pulmonary function lab consistently passed, but the exam room patient/visitor chairs consistently failed in all rounds. In adult clinics blood pressure equipment, keyboards in exam rooms and exam tables passed in all rounds and no surface consistently failed. We demonstrate the feasibility of an ATP bioluminescence assay to measure cleanliness of patient care equipment and surfaces in CF clinics. Pass rates improved after cleaning and feedback for certain surfaces. We found that surfaces are more challenging to keep clean in clinics taking care of younger patients.

Improved photocatalytic disinfection performance of graphitic carbon nitride through hybridization with humic acid /zinc peroxide: A synergistic generation of antimicrobial reactive oxygen species

Photocatalytic disinfection of bacteria using photosensitive nanomaterials is an efficient method for bacteria inactivation and is considered a beneficial alternative to chemical disinfectants that produce harmful by-products. However, due to the limited application scope of photocatalysts, the antibacterial efficiency remains unsatisfactory. To enhance the photocatalytic efficiency of the non-metal photosensitizer, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets, they were composited with a metal-based photosensitizer, zinc peroxide (ZnO2) nanoparticles, with the aim of humic acid (HA). Besides the self-generating ability of H2O2 by ZnO2 in an aqueous medium, its deposition over g-C3N4 nanosheets enhances visible light harvesting and increases both surface area and active sites, thereby enhancing photocatalytic efficiency. The resulting composite, g-C3N4/ZnO2, produced more H2O2, •OH, and O2•- radicals than either component when exposed to visible light. Moreover, the photocatalyst demonstrated enhanced photocatalytic disinfection efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) under dark conditions compared to pure g-C3N4 nanosheets. However, a notably greater antibacterial activity was observed when the nanocomposites were subjected to light irradiation. FESEM images and live-dead assays revealed the physical contact of the nanocomposite with the surface of bacterial cells and the loss of cell membrane integrity. Furthermore, it was observed that there was greater cellular uptake of nanocomposites into cells and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light irradiation compared to similar conditions in the dark, leading to an increased photoinactivation rate of bacteria. The enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of g-C3N4/ZnO2 nanocomposites make them attractive for a range of applications, including use in nanomedicine and environmental surface disinfection.

Healthcare-associated infection management in 62 ICUs for patients with congenital heart disease in China: a survey study.

All patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) receive postoperative management in ICUs. Infection prevention and control (IPC) has a significant impact on prognosis. This study provides a preliminary understanding of the fundamental aspects of IPC in ICUs following CHD surgery in China. From September to October 2023, we initiated a survey on healthcare-associated infection (HAI) management in hospitals that perform CHD surgeries independently. The questionnaires were jointly completed by the ICU physicians and IPC personnel. Duplicate or unqualified questionnaires were excluded from the study. The contents of our questionnaires covered hospital and ICU capacity, performance of the infection control department, HAI surveillance, implementation of IPC measures, and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). Qualified questionnaires were compared according to the volume of annual CHD surgeries performed in different ICUs. Group 1 was defined as volume more than 300 cases and group 2 was defined as volume less than or equal to 300 cases. Sixty-two of the 118 questionnaires were completed, with a response rate of 53%. The CHD surgical volume in 2022 of the 62 hospitals was 36342, accounting for 52% of the annual CHD surgical volume (69672) across the country. The postoperative infection rates obtained from the 15 ICUs varied from 1.3 to 15%, with a median rate of 4.5%. A total of 16 ICUs provided data on drug-resistant bacteria, Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibiting the highest frequency. More than 95% of ICUs have established complete HAI management systems. Information-based HAI surveillance was conducted in 89% of ICUs. Approximately 67% of ICUs stopped prophylactic antibiotics within 48 hours after surgery. In complex cases, carbapenems were administered empirically in 89% of ICUs. Group 1 had an advantage over group 2 in preventing multi-drug-resistant organisms (all instruments should be used alone 100% vs. 86%, P =0.047; cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces, 100% vs. 81%, P =0.035; antibiotic consumption control 85% vs. 61%, P =0.044) and in preventing surgical site infections (perioperative blood glucose monitoring, 88% vs. 67%, P =0.048). However, Group 1 did not perform well in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infection (delayed catheter removal due to convenience of laboratory tests, 31% vs. 6%, P =0.021) and catheter-associated urinary tract infection (delayed catheter removal due to muscle relaxant administration, 88% vs. 58%, P =0.022). A relatively complete HAI management system has been established throughout the country in ICUs for CHD patients. Information-based surveillance of HAI needs to be promoted, and actions should be taken to facilitate the implementation of IPC measures and AMS bundles. Training and feedback are critical for implementing IPC measures.

Role of the contaminated environment in transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms in nursing homes and infection prevention

With aging of the population in the United States, there are more people in long-term care facilities than in hospitals. Nursing home residents have a high prevalence of colonization with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). A shared environment with vulnerable patients can facilitate intra- and inter-facility transmission of MDROs. The aim of this paper is to examine the role of the nursing home environment in MDRO transmission and provide infection prevention strategies. We searched the published literature and reviewed selected articles on contamination, transmission, and infection associated with the nursing home environment. Nursing home residents were frequently colonized with MDROs, leading to contamination of the surrounding environment with the same pathogen. Surface contamination with MDROs was common in nursing home patient rooms, and to a substantial but lesser frequency in common rooms. Shared rooms were a risk factor for MDRO transmission between patients. Since outbreaks and infections via the environmental contamination cause substantial burden of morbidity and mortality in the nursing home residents, it is essential for healthcare personnel to recognize the role of the nursing home environment in infection transmission and adhere to the current infection prevention guidelines for cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces.

594 Assessing effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection of equipment and environmental surfaces in cystic fibrosis clinics using an adenosine triphosphate assay

594 Assessing effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection of equipment and environmental surfaces in cystic fibrosis clinics using an adenosine triphosphate assay

Environmental cleaning in operating rooms: A systematic review from the human factors engineering perspective

Background: Environmental cleaning is critical in preventing pathogen transmission and potential consecutive healthcare-acquired infections. In operating rooms (ORs), multiple invasive procedures increase the infectious risk for patients, making proper cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces of paramount importance. A human-factors engineering (HFE) approach emphasizing the impact of the entire work system on care processes and outcomes has been proposed to improve environmental cleaning. Using the lens of this HFE approach, we conducted a systematic review to synthesize existing evidence and identify gaps in the literature on OR cleaning. Methods: The systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and limited to English-written, peer-reviewed journal articles reporting empirical studies on OR cleaning. Figure 1 shows the flowchart of study search and screening. The following data were extracted from each included article: (1) general information of the article (eg, first author, title, journal, year of publication) and (2) characteristics of the study (eg, country, objectives, design, outcome measures and measuring techniques, findings, funding source). In addition, work-system elements (eg, people, tasks, tools and technologies, physical environment, organizational conditions) and cleaning processes (eg, turnover cleaning, terminal cleaning) addressed in each included studywere coded based on the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model. The methodological quality of included studies using a (non)randomized controlled design was assessed using the version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. Results: In total, 35 studies were included in this review, among which 10 examined the effectiveness of OR cleaning in reducing environmental contamination (Fig. 2), 1 examined the compliance of OR cleaning practices (Fig. 3), and 24 examined interventions for improving OR cleaning effectiveness and/or compliance (Fig. 4). Figure 5 summarizes the characteristics of the included studies. Conclusions: In this review, OR cleaning was inconsistently performed in practice, and mixed findings were reported regarding the effectiveness of OR cleaning in reducing environmental contamination. No study has systematically examined work-system factors influencing OR cleaning. Efforts to improve OR cleaning focused on cleaning tools and technologies (eg, ultraviolet light) and staff monitoring and training. Interventions targeting the broader work system influencing the cleaning processes are lacking. The scientific rigor of the included studies was modest. Most studies were either commercially funded or did not reveal their funding sources, which might introduce a desirability bias.Financial support: This study was funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Disclosures: None

Status of Cleaning and Disinfection of Environmental Surfaces in Hospitals

Status of Cleaning and Disinfection of Environmental Surfaces in Hospitals

Prevalence, genetic diversity, antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from urban environments.

Acinetobacter baumannii is a well-known nosocomial pathogen that has been isolated from different clinical sources. This pathogen also causes community-acquired infections, with mortality rates as high as 64%. The exact natural habitat of this bacterium is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of A. baumannii in diverse soil and high-touch surface samples collected from a university campus, malls, parks, hypermarkets and produce markets, roundabout playground slides and bank ATMs. All obtained isolates were characterized for their antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation capacities, and were typed by multi-locus sequence analysis. A total of 63 A. baumannii isolates were recovered, along with 46 Acinetobacter pittii and 8 Acinetobacter nosocomialis isolates. Sequence typing revealed that 25 A. baumannii isolates are novel strains. Toilets and sink washing basins were the most contaminated surfaces, accounting for almost 50% of the isolates. A number of A. baumannii (n= 10), A. pittii (n= 19) and A. nosocomialis (n= 5) isolates were recovered from handles of shopping carts and baskets. The majority of isolates were strong biofilm formers and 4 isolates exhibited a multi-drug resistant phenotype. Our study is the first to highlight community restrooms and shopping carts as potential reservoirs for pathogenic Acinetobacter species. Further studies are required to identify the reasons associated with the occurrence of A. baumannii inside restrooms. Proper disinfection of community environmental surfaces and spreading awareness about the importance of hand hygiene may prevent the dissemination of pathogenic bacteria within the community. Serious gaps remain in our knowledge of how A. baumannii spreads to cause disease. This study will advance our understanding of how this pathogen spreads between healthcare and community environments. In addition, our findings will help healthcare decision-makers implement better measures to control and limit further transmission of A. baumannii.

The environmental footprint of single-use versus reusable cloths for clinical surface decontamination: a life cycle approach

Global sustainability is a major health concern facing our planet today. The healthcare sector is a significant contributor to environmentally damaging activity. Reusable cloths should be considered as an environmentally friendly alternative to the predominantly used single-use surface wipes in cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces in healthcare settings. To conduct a rapid review of current policies on surface decontamination in healthcare settings; then to carry out a life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) of reusable cotton and microfibre cloths versus conventional single-use cloths, with three compatible disinfectants. Seven countries were included in the rapid review of policies. For the LCIA, inputs, outputs, and processes across the life cycle were included, using EcoInvent database v3.7.1 and open LCIA software. Sixteen European-recommended environmental impact categories and eight human health categories were considered. Infection prevention policies examined do not require single-use wipes for cleaning and disinfection. The disinfectant with the highest environmental impact was isopropyl alcohol. The most environmentally sustainable option for clinical surface decontamination was the microfibre cloth when used with a quaternary ammonium compound. The least environmentally sustainable option was cotton with isopropyl alcohol. Impacts were primarily attributed with the use of the disinfectant agent and travel processes.

Development of a COVID-19 risk assessment model for participants at outdoor music festivals: evaluation of the validity and control measure effectiveness based on two actual events in Japan and Spain.

We developed an environmental exposure model to estimate the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) risk among participants at outdoor music festivals and validated the model using two real events—one in Japan (Event 1) and one in Spain (Event 2). Furthermore, we considered a hypothetical situation in which Event 1 was held but enhanced measures were implemented to evaluate the extent to which the risk could be reduced by additional infection control measures, such as negative antigen tests on the day of the event, wearing of masks, disinfection of environmental surfaces, and vaccination. Among 7,392 participants, the total number of already- and newly-infected individuals who participated in Event 1 according to the new model was 47.0 (95% uncertainty interval: 12.5–185.5), which is in good agreement with the reported value (45). The risk of infection at Event 2 (1.98 × 10−2; 95% uncertainty interval: 0.55 × 10−2–6.39 × 10−2), calculated by the model in this study, was also similar to the estimated value in the previous epidemiological study (1.25 × 10−2). These results for the two events in different countries highlighted the validity of the model. Among the additional control measures in the hypothetical Event 1, vaccination, mask-wearing, and disinfection of surfaces were determined to be effective. Based on the combination of all measures, a 94% risk reduction could be achieved. In addition to setting a benchmark for an acceptable number of newly-infected individuals at the time of an event, the application of this model will enable us to determine whether it is necessary to implement additional measures, limit the number of participants, or refrain from holding an event.

The effect of the use of disinfectants during COVID-19 pandemic on the bacterial contamination of dental unit waterlines

Background: The emergence and spread of SARS-CoV-2 has increased environmental disinfectant usage to reduce the transmission of this virus. Ethanol 70%-90% and 5% sodium hypochlorite have the highest consumption for disinfection of various environmental surfaces during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) are more susceptible to microbial contamination due to their particular structure. This study aimed to investigate the effect of increasing the use of disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic on the bacterial contamination of DUWLs. Methods: During November (before the COVID-19 pandemic) and December (during the COVID-19 pandemic), a questionnaire was used to assess the frequency of disinfection of unit surfaces and other environmental surfaces and the type of disinfectants used. The water samples were collected from different parts of DUWLs. The gram staining method followed by the biochemical method was used to identify the desired bacteria. Results: The results showed that the frequency of disinfection of dental units increased 8 times in December compared to November. There is a significant inverse relationship between the frequency of disinfection of dental units surfaces and the bacterial contamination of DUWLs. Conclusion: The microbial load in different parts of the DUWLs was less than 200 CFU/mL. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommended and indicated the allowable microbial concentration and the appropriate quality and water used in these units.

Hidden Truth Uncovered: Compromised Environmental Cleaning Practices of Housekeeping Lead to Increased Hospital Acquired Infections in Lower Middle-Income Country

Background Environmental cleaning is a fundamental principle in prevention and control of hospital acquired infections (HAIs) and reducing the microbial burden on the surfaces. Pathogens like vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE), Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), Multi Drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs), gram-negative bacilli, etc. can survive on inanimate surfaces from hours-days-months in a health-care settings. Routine and terminal environmental cleaning/disinfection plays a vital role in minimizing the outbreaks in hospitals which are recognized as a major contributor to morbidity and mortality of hospitalized patients. Methods Pre and post intervention, environment cultures were taken anonymously, and data was analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics. Causes and effects were studied, housekeeping staff practices were observed through direct observations, camera, and secret shoppers. Environmental cleaning guidelines and checklists were developed in the light of Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention guidelines (2020), hands on practice and sessions were taken for housekeeping staff. Housekeeping supervisors were trained as train the trainers (TOT) to ensure compliance in all shifts round the clock 24/7. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) quality improvement methodology was followed together with process and outcome key performance indicators. Results Our MDRO rates decreased significantly i.e., from 4.7 to 2.8, the overall compliance rate of environmental cleaning and disinfection went up from 53% to 87%, compliance increased in 10 (71.4%) out of 14 components in checklist. Number of dusters and buckets increased substantially. Knowledge and practice of all housekeeping staff increased from 65% to 97%. All 380 (100%) housekeeping staff were trained and the concepts of high/low touch surfaces, sequence of cleaning from clean to dirty, dilution of disinfectant improved drastically. Zero MDROs were identified on pre and post cleaning of occupied and unoccupied bed's side rails, doorknob, mattress, remote control, IV pole, cardiac monitor etc. Conclusions Cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces is essential to prevent transmission of hospital acquired infections particularly MDROs. Environmental cleaning is a fundamental principle in prevention and control of hospital acquired infections (HAIs) and reducing the microbial burden on the surfaces. Pathogens like vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE), Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), Multi Drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs), gram-negative bacilli, etc. can survive on inanimate surfaces from hours-days-months in a health-care settings. Routine and terminal environmental cleaning/disinfection plays a vital role in minimizing the outbreaks in hospitals which are recognized as a major contributor to morbidity and mortality of hospitalized patients. Pre and post intervention, environment cultures were taken anonymously, and data was analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics. Causes and effects were studied, housekeeping staff practices were observed through direct observations, camera, and secret shoppers. Environmental cleaning guidelines and checklists were developed in the light of Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention guidelines (2020), hands on practice and sessions were taken for housekeeping staff. Housekeeping supervisors were trained as train the trainers (TOT) to ensure compliance in all shifts round the clock 24/7. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) quality improvement methodology was followed together with process and outcome key performance indicators. Our MDRO rates decreased significantly i.e., from 4.7 to 2.8, the overall compliance rate of environmental cleaning and disinfection went up from 53% to 87%, compliance increased in 10 (71.4%) out of 14 components in checklist. Number of dusters and buckets increased substantially. Knowledge and practice of all housekeeping staff increased from 65% to 97%. All 380 (100%) housekeeping staff were trained and the concepts of high/low touch surfaces, sequence of cleaning from clean to dirty, dilution of disinfectant improved drastically. Zero MDROs were identified on pre and post cleaning of occupied and unoccupied bed's side rails, doorknob, mattress, remote control, IV pole, cardiac monitor etc. Cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces is essential to prevent transmission of hospital acquired infections particularly MDROs.

Determination of SARS-CoV-2 Contamination in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Environment Using Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)

PurposeNeonatal infections with SARS-CoV-2 are thought to be less contagious than in older children and adults. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from neonates and their environment has not been well studied. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) is an emerging and sensitive technology that can aid infection control investigations. We sought to document surface contamination within the immediate environment of a preterm neonate with congenital COVID-19 using ddPCR.Methods & MaterialsOn day 5 of life, a total of 23 environmental samples were collected in Eswabs (Amies media) based on proximity to the neonate, from the inside (7) and outside (16) of the neonate's incubator for ddPCR analysis. Samples were extracted, using an in-house method and each extract was run for reverse-transcription ddPCR measurement using the Bio-Rad SARS-CoV-2 ddPCR Kit. The 96-well RT-ddPCR ready plate was loaded into the QX200 Droplet Reader (Bio-Rad, Pleasanton, CA). The fluorescence intensity of each droplet was measured, and droplets were determined to be positive or negative for gene targets (N1, N2).ResultsAll samples collected from outside of the incubator were negative.These included: a stethoscope hanging outside of the incubator, nearby keyboard/mouse, wireless phone receiver, barcode scanner, blood culture bottles, pens/pencils, light switches, weigh scale, countertop/shelf, cart with drawers and incubator port release clips. Samples collected from inside the incubator were positive for SARS-CoV-2. These results reported in copies per microlitre (cp/µL) extract included: the swaddle cloth (0.4 N2), sheets behind the neonate's head (11.4 N1, 16.9 N2), cardiorespiratory and saturation monitor leads and cables near the neonate's head (2.8 N1,4.5 N2), near the neonate's feet (2.1 N1, 3.7 N2), and nametags hanging on a panel (1.0 N1,1.2 N2). The highest levels were noted from the neonate's drool (25.2 N1, 35.2 N2).ConclusionThe presence of SARS-CoV-2 was confirmed by ddPCR in environmental samples inside the incubator confirming the ability of the neonate to spread the virus in close quarters. No virus was identified outside of the incubator which suggests appropriate hand hygiene and disinfection of environmental surfaces. ddPCR appears to be a useful tool for investigating the potential role of fomites in COVID-19 transmission

Assessment of alkylimidazolium chloride ionic liquid formulations for cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces

Surface disinfection is fundamental to good environmental hygiene and preventing infections. Development of newer formulations that can effectively kill and remove microorganisms from the surfaces is desired. Here, we assessed the efficacy of 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [C16MIM][Cl] ionic liquid (IL) and its formulation in ethanol for killing and removing bacteria from different environmental surfaces. Efficacy of IL and its formulation was determined on known monospecies bacterial cultures and unknown multispecies bacterial cultures on environmental surfaces. The surface disinfection efficacy of [C16MIM][Cl] was concentration dependent and achieved 41 to 100%reduction in total viable bacterial counts of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria at varied concentrations. The treatment of wooden surface with 0.1% [C16MIM][Cl] caused 98% reduction in bacterialload within 20 s contact time as against mere 45% reduction (20 s) with 70% ethanol. Antibacterial and surface disinfection activities of [C16MIM][Cl] have increased markedly when prepared in 70% ethanol, suggesting synergistic activity. A formulation comprising of 0.01% [C16MIM][Cl] in 70% ethanol showed effective surface disinfection and achieved 95% to 98% reduction in bacterial load on different surfaces. Ionic liquids are potent candidates for disinfection of environmental surfaces.

Evidence Map and Systematic Review of Disinfection Efficacy on Environmental Surfaces in Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) contribute to patient morbidity and mortality with an estimated 1.7 million infections and 99,000 deaths costing USD $28–34 billion annually in the United States alone. There is little understanding as to if current environmental surface disinfection practices reduce pathogen load, and subsequently HAIs, in critical care settings. This evidence map includes a systematic review on the efficacy of disinfecting environmental surfaces in healthcare facilities. We screened 17,064 abstracts, 635 full texts, and included 181 articles for data extraction and study quality assessment. We reviewed ten disinfectant types and compared disinfectants with respect to study design, outcome organism, and fourteen indictors of study quality. We found important areas for improvement and gaps in the research related to study design, implementation, and analysis. Implementation of disinfection, a determinant of disinfection outcomes, was not measured in most studies and few studies assessed fungi or viruses. Assessing and comparing disinfection efficacy was impeded by study heterogeneity; however, we catalogued the outcomes and results for each disinfection type. We concluded that guidelines for disinfectant use are primarily based on laboratory data rather than a systematic review of in situ disinfection efficacy. It is critically important for practitioners and researchers to consider system-level efficacy and not just the efficacy of the disinfectant.

Principales factores relacionados con las infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud en población neonatal entre 2014 a 2020. Revisión sistemática

Introducción. Las infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud son un efecto adverso frecuente. Los neonatos son un grupo poblacional afectado debido a su inmadurez inmunitaria. La Organización Mundial de la Salud estima que estas infecciones varían entre 5% a 25% en función del nivel de ingresos de cada país. En Colombia se evidencia un subregistro para estas infecciones, particularmente en los neonatos. Este estudio buscó identificar los factores de riesgo, microorganismos más comunes, y las vías de transmisión y colonización relacionadas a las infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud en neonatos, según lo reportado en la literatura mundial. Metodología. Se realizo una búsqueda sistemática por duplicado, que incluyó pesquisa de artículos, primera lectura y exclusión de duplicados, conciliación entre autores y evaluación de la calidad, en la base de datos PubMed, con artículos publicados entre los años 2014 a 2019. Resultados. El nivel de evidencia y el grado de recomendación fue bueno en general (niveles 1 y 2, recomendación A y B). Los factores de riesgo más comunes fueron la prematuridad y el bajo peso al nacer, el uso de catéter venoso central, ventilación mecánica, estancia hospitalaria prolongada y el uso de antibióticos por largo tiempo. Se reportaron microorganismos de importancia como Staphylococcus coagulasa negativos y Serratia marcenscens, y vías de transmisión y colonización comunes como el torrente sanguíneo, la vía respiratoria, la gastrointestinal y la piel. Conclusión. Las infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud son más frecuentes de lo estimado y se pueden prevenir con la adopción de políticas sanitarias, como son un correcto lavado de manos, la desinfección del ambiente y equipos médicos, un adecuado cuidado de la piel del neonato y protocolos de aislamiento para pacientes con estas infecciones.

Evaluation of environmental surface contamination and disinfection effects on multidrug-resistant organism

Evaluation of environmental surface contamination and disinfection effects on multidrug-resistant organism

Disinfection of Environmental Surfaces and Articles Used for COVID 19 Patient

Disinfection of environment surfaces and articles used for COVID 19 patient plays an important role in reducing indirect transmission of SARS-CoV-2 – the virus responsible for COVID-19. Depending on the type of surface, SARS-CoV-2 can remain viable between eight hours to several days. The surfaces are contaminated when virus-containing droplets land on surfaces, or when someone with contaminated hands touches these surfaces. Virus contamination in both health care as well as non-health care settings can be reduced by good disinfection practices. Cleaning and disinfection is fundamental because it kills any remaining germs on the surface and thereby reduces the spread of germs. Therefore disinfection of the health care environment is vital in reducing infection rate. Following strict cleaning and disinfection protocols is the key to make sure that the patient as well as the health care worker remains safe. It is also important to increase awareness on how to clean and disinfect the articles used for Covid patient, so that the disease not spread to other patients and at the same time health care workers are protected. The disinfectant and its concentration should be carefully selected to avoid or minimize toxic effects on household members and also avoid damaging surfaces.

Indoor Finish Material Influence on Contamination, Transmission, and Eradication of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Objective:The purpose of this study was to evaluate environmental surface materials used in healthcare environments for material composition, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) viability, and a comparison of two disinfectants, a bleach germicidal cleaner and Decon7, a novel disinfectant.Background:Contaminated environmental surfaces have been associated with outbreaks of healthcare-associated illness (HAIs). One in every 20 patients in U.S. acute care hospitals acquire a healthcare-associated illness, leading to consequences such as elevated morbidity, mortality, and a decrease in quality of life. In the patient environment, MRSA can remain viable from hours to up to 14 days.Methods:Environmental surface materials were evaluated as new and worn. Material composition and properties were assessed to evaluate surface integrity and the influence on the disinfection of MRSA. Inoculated materials were used to assess MRSA viability over time and the efficacy of a manufacturer’s recommended cleaning and disinfection product compared to a novel disinfectant.Results:Environmental surface materials respond differently in appearance and roughness, when mechanically worn. When measuring MRSA survival, at 24 hr, MRSA colony forming unit (CFU) counts were reduced on the copper sheet surface and solid surface with cupric oxide. By 72 hr, all MRSA counts were zero. Bleach and the novel disinfectant were equally effective at disinfecting MRSA from all surface types.Conclusions:This study highlights a gap in knowledge about the impact of type and wear of environmental surface materials used in healthcare environments on contamination with epidemiologically important organisms. In conclusion, environmental surface material wear, properties, and cleaning and disinfection efficacy are important factors to consider when addressing HAIs.

Environmental cleaning and disinfection of hospital rooms: A nationwide survey

As an important reservoir for hospital-acquired infections, environmental surfaces have long been targeted by interventions to improve cleaning and disinfection. Differences in disinfection practices across US hospitals, however, are still unclear. We conducted a nationwide survey of environmental services (EVS) personnel in the United States regarding their environmental surface disinfection practices from January 2019 to June 2019. We developed and pilot tested the survey in conjunction with EVS specialists. Survey questions inquired about choices of disinfectants and cleaning equipment during daily and terminal disinfection of both contact isolation and non-contact isolation rooms. We contacted 273 EVS personnel by phone and email to participate in the survey. Fourty-seven EVS personnel representing different hospitals from 26 US states were included in the analysis. Hypochlorite (bleach) and quaternary ammonium compounds were the most frequently used disinfectants. Most respondents reported using microfiber-based cloths and mops to carry out disinfection. High-touch surfaces in contact isolation rooms were frequently disinfected using bleach (81%, n = 38); floors, however, were not disinfected as frequently in patient rooms. The vast majority of respondents reported use of sporicidal disinfectants for contact isolation rooms but not regular rooms. While frequently used to disinfectant contact isolation rooms, sporicidal agents are rarely used to disinfect regular rooms. Patient room floors are inconsistently disinfected compared to high-touch surfaces.