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Microbial contamination of antiseptics and disinfectants

Somwang Danchaivijitr1, Chertsak Dhiraputra, Yong Rongrungruang

  • 1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bankok. sisdc@mahidol.ac.th

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|July 21, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Bacterial contamination of in-use antiseptics and disinfectants reached 1.8%. Key risk factors included improper preparation and prolonged use, with Lysol 2% showing the highest contamination rates.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infection Control
  • Hospital Hygiene

Background:

  • Antiseptics and disinfectants are crucial for infection control.
  • Contamination of these solutions can pose a significant risk.
  • Understanding contamination sources is vital for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of bacterial contamination in commonly used antiseptics and disinfectants.
  • To identify risk factors associated with the contamination of these solutions.
  • To compare contamination rates across different types of healthcare facilities.

Main Methods:

  • Culturing of in-use solutions of eight common antiseptics and disinfectants.
  • Analysis of 16,142 samples from various healthcare settings.
  • Identification of risk factors including preparation methods, containers, and duration of use.

Main Results:

  • A 1.8% contamination rate was observed across all tested solutions.
  • Lysol 2% exhibited the highest contamination rate; povidone iodine 10% and tincture iodine 1-2% showed no contamination.
  • Contamination was more prevalent in provincial hospitals compared to university hospitals and correlated with prolonged use.

Conclusions:

  • In-use antiseptics and disinfectants can be significantly contaminated (up to 1.8%).
  • Improper preparation and prolonged use are identified as primary risk factors.
  • Environmental bacteria were the most common isolates, highlighting the importance of sterile handling practices.

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