Improperly used disinfectant wipes spread bacteria in hospitals

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Improperly used disinfectant wipes spread bacteria in hospitals

Wednesday, 04 June 2008 15:18

Improperly used wipes spread bacteria According to a recent study performed by British researchers, disinfectant wipes typically used in hospitals may actually spread superbugs like MRSA rather than kill the dangerous infections.

While the wipes eliminated some bacteria, a study showed they did not kill them all and could transfer the germs to other surfaces according to Gareth Williams, a microbiologist at Cardiff University.

The findings were presented at the American Society of Microbiology's General Meeting held in Boston and focused on bacteria that included methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

"What we have found is there is a high risk," said Williams in an AP interview. "We need to give guidance to the staff on how to use the wipes because we found there is a possibility of cross transfer."

MRSA infections can be deadly resulting in severe infections of the bloodstream, lungs and surgical sites. Most cases occur in hospitals, nursing homes or health care facilities; however community related cases of MRSA are being reported with greater frequency.

Medical experts have been stating for years that poor hospital practices spread dangerous bacteria. Even with this knowledge, studies have demonstrated that health care workers, including doctors and nurses, often fail to even wash their hands as directed.

A study of intensive care units at two Welsh hospitals suggest that cleaning with antimicrobial wipes may be ineffective depending on how staff members use them.

The researchers also uncovered that health care workers cleaned many surfaces near patients, such as tables, IV poles and bed rails with the same wipe and were potentially moving the infections to other areas instead of cleaning them up.

The most effective way to prevent the spread of MRSA in hospital rooms is to ensure that a wipe is only used once on each surface according to the study's author.

Remain GermAware

Remaining GermAware when faced with superbugs like C. diff and MRSA is only common sense. Take the time to remain educated, healthy and prepared. It may make a difference for you, your family and friends.

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