Patients' bath basins as potential sources of infection: a multicenter sampling study

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Nosocomial infections represent a substantial burden on healthcare systems, contributing to increased patient mortality.
• Identifying reservoirs for hospital-acquired infections is crucial for effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and quantify bacteria present in patient bath basins.
• To assess the role of bath basins as a potential reservoir for bacterial colonization.
• To evaluate bath basins as a risk factor for hospital-acquired infections.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study was conducted across three acute care hospitals, including intensive care units.
• Ninety-two bath basins were sampled using sterile culture sponges.
• Samples underwent qualitative and quantitative microbial analysis at an external laboratory.

Main Results:

• Bacteria were detected in 98% of sampled bath basins.
• Commonly identified bacteria included enterococci (54%), gram-negative organisms (32%), and Staphylococcus aureus (23%).
• Significant quantitative bacterial loads were found, with mean plate counts for gram-negative organisms at 10,187 CFU and enterococci at 207 CFU.

Conclusions:

• Bath basins serve as a reservoir for diverse bacteria, including multidrug-resistant organisms.
• These basins represent a potential source for the transmission of hospital-acquired infections.
• Enhanced awareness and targeted interventions are necessary, especially for high-risk patient populations.