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Bacterial and viral contamination of reusable sharps containers in a community hospital setting
1North Coast Clinical Laboratory, Inc., Sandusky, Ohio 44870, USA. jack@northcoastlab.com
Background:
Proper disposal of sharps in the clinical setting is a key factor in infection control. Previous research studies suggest that reprocessed, reusable medical devices and infectious waste containers are potential sources of microorganisms capable of causing infection in immunocompromised patients. This pilot study was a single-center, prospective, hospital-based, microbiologic evaluation of reusable sharps disposal containers returned to the hospital from a reprocessing company.
Methods:
A New England area, 130-bed community hospital performed the evaluation. Following delivery to the hospital's shipping/receiving area, 30 newly processed, reusable sharps disposal containers were swabbed for the presence of bacteria and viruses.
Results:
Twenty-seven containers (90%) tested positive for bacteria, and 10% of the recovered isolates were gram-negative rods. Nine out of 30 (30%) cultures were positive for viruses: HIV (10%), hepatitis A (6.7%), hepatitis B (6.7%), and hepatitis C (13.3%), and several containers tested positive for multiple viruses and bacteria.
Conclusion:
Reusable sharps containers were returned to this medical facility with bacterial and viral contamination. Further testing is warranted to determine the scope of the problem and potential clinical implications.
Insights
Reusable sharps containers returned to hospitals may carry dangerous bacteria and viruses. This pilot study found significant contamination, highlighting potential infection control risks for immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Infection Control
- Microbiology
- Healthcare Waste Management
Background:
- Proper disposal of sharps is crucial for infection control in clinical settings.
- Reprocessed medical devices and infectious waste containers can harbor microorganisms.
- This study evaluated reusable sharps disposal containers returned from a reprocessing company.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a microbiologic evaluation of reusable sharps disposal containers.
- To assess the presence of bacterial and viral contamination on returned containers.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, hospital-based microbiologic evaluation was conducted.
- 30 newly processed, reusable sharps disposal containers were sampled.
- Swabs were tested for the presence of bacteria and viruses.
Main Results:
- 90% of containers tested positive for bacteria, including gram-negative rods.
- 30% of cultures were positive for viruses: HIV, hepatitis A, B, and C.
- Several containers showed contamination with multiple bacteria and viruses.
Conclusions:
- Reusable sharps containers returned to healthcare facilities can be contaminated.
- Bacterial and viral contamination poses potential risks.
- Further research is needed to understand the scope and clinical implications.
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