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Refurbishment works in a hospital during normal operation
Birgit Ross1, Dorothea Hansen, Tim Lieske
1Krankenhaushygiene, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany.
GMS Krankenhaushygiene Interdisziplinar
|January 14, 2012
Summary
Hospital renovations can be done safely without patient transfer if areas are sealed. Strict infection control measures during construction prevent airborne fungal infections in vulnerable patients.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare-associated infections
- Infection control in hospitals
- Environmental monitoring in healthcare settings
Background:
- Hospital renovations pose risks of airborne fungal infections for immunocompromised patients.
- Urgent repairs may necessitate work without patient transfer or ward closure.
- This study reports on infection control measures during two water damage incidents requiring immediate renovation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate infection control measures during hospital renovations.
- To assess the impact of renovation on airborne particle and fungal concentrations.
- To determine if ward closure is necessary during refurbishment.
Main Methods:
- Airborne particle and viable fungi concentrations were measured in surgical wards and an intensive care unit (ICU).
- Preventive measures included erecting protective walls and using HEPA filtration.
- Measurements were taken between January-April 2009 and September-October 2009.
Main Results:
- Mould and particle concentrations increased significantly in renovation areas compared to control wards.
- Airborne particle levels were elevated on the ICU during renovation.
- No nosocomial mould infections were observed in patients during the renovation works.
Conclusions:
- Ward closure may not be necessary if renovation areas are properly insulated.
- Airborne fungal variations during renovation were comparable to outdoor or control air levels.
- A multidisciplinary team should conduct risk assessments and implement protective measures before healthcare construction or renovation.
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