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Minimising cross-infection risks associated with beds and mattresses

Shila Patel1

  • 1Epsom and St. Helier University, Hospitals NHS Trust.

Nursing Times
|March 10, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Inanimate objects, known as fomites, can contribute to the spread of infections. These items, including beds and medical equipment, may harbor harmful microorganisms.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Infection control

Background:

  • Infection transmission is a significant healthcare concern.
  • Inanimate objects, termed fomites, can act as reservoirs for pathogenic microorganisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of fomites in infection spread.
  • To identify common fomites in healthcare environments.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on fomite-associated infections.
  • Identification of frequently implicated fomites.

Main Results:

  • Fomites such as beds, mattresses, curtains, bedpans, and sphygmomanometers are frequently contaminated.
  • Microorganisms on fomites pose a risk for indirect transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Fomites are critical elements in the chain of infection.
  • Environmental hygiene and disinfection are essential to mitigate fomite-borne transmission.

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