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[Latent risk and precautions against cross infection at the respiratory disease unit]
Abstract:
To investigate the contamination of respiratory pathogens in the ward of respiratory disease, bacterial count was conducted in air of different rooms of the ward. It was found that the air total bacterial count was much higher in the nursing room and ICU than that in the rooms with good ventilation (P less than 0.01). Pathogens were examined in the saliva of the medical staff. No significant difference was found in the pathogens of the saliva between the COPD patients and medical staff, who were considered as bacteria-carriers. 155 times of bacteriologic examinations were made in 68 humidified bottles for oxygen supplement. All bottles had a mixed contamination, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being one of common pathogens.
Insights
Respiratory pathogen contamination is high in hospital air, especially in nursing rooms and ICUs. Medical staff may act as carriers, and oxygen humidifiers are frequently contaminated with bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Disease Control
- Hospital Hygiene
Background:
- Respiratory pathogens pose a significant risk in healthcare settings.
- Understanding contamination sources is crucial for infection prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess bacterial contamination in a respiratory disease ward.
- To identify potential sources and carriers of respiratory pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Airborne bacterial counts were performed in various ward rooms.
- Saliva samples from medical staff and COPD patients were analyzed.
- Bacteriological examination of oxygen humidification bottles was conducted.
Main Results:
- Higher total bacterial counts were observed in nursing rooms and ICUs compared to well-ventilated areas (P < 0.01).
- Similar oral pathogens were found in both COPD patients and medical staff, suggesting staff act as carriers.
- All tested oxygen humidification bottles showed mixed bacterial contamination, frequently including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Conclusions:
- Hospital environments, particularly nursing stations and ICUs, can harbor high levels of airborne bacteria.
- Medical staff may serve as reservoirs for respiratory pathogens.
- Oxygen delivery systems are a common source of bacterial contamination, necessitating strict disinfection protocols.