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Bacterial contamination in physical therapy departments in the State of Kuwait
Sameera H Aljadi1, Mashael Al-Shemmari2, Jumana Al-Ramzi2
1Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kuwait University, State of Kuwait.
Abstract:
[Purpose] Interferential therapy and electrical stimulation are electrophysical modalities commonly used in physical therapy departments to treat patients with musculoskeletal problems. These machines are applied directly to the patient's skin via a medium or electrodes, which can facilitate the transmission of microorganisms from one patient to another. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of microorganism contamination in the machines sponges at physical therapy departments in Kuwait hospitals. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty samples comprising sponges from interferential therapy and electrical stimulation machines, and water from hot pack units were collected from 5 physical therapy departments in 5 different hospitals. The samples were analyzed at a Medical Laboratory to explore the extent and type of microorganisms present. [Results] Forty-one of the 60 samples (68.3%) were positive for microorganism contamination. Of the 41 contaminated samples, 28 (68.3%) were sponges and 13 (31.7%) were water samples. The major microorganisms found were Acinetobacter baumannii (21.9%), Serratia marcescens (12.2%), and Staphylococcus lentus (7.3%). [Conclusion] Interferential therapy and electrical stimulation in physical therapy departments have a high probability of causing cross contamination between patients. Physical therapists are encouraged to adhere to safety guidelines, such as disinfection management, disposal of used sponges, and regular sponge replacement.
Insights
Physical therapy machines like interferential therapy and electrical stimulation units show high microorganism contamination rates on sponges. This highlights a significant risk for cross-contamination between patients in Kuwait hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Physical Therapy
- Infection Control
Background:
- Electrophysical modalities, including interferential therapy and electrical stimulation, are standard in physical therapy for musculoskeletal conditions.
- Direct skin contact via electrodes or sponges poses a risk for microbial transmission between patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the level and types of microorganism contamination on sponges used with interferential therapy and electrical stimulation machines.
- To investigate potential cross-contamination risks in physical therapy departments within Kuwait hospitals.
Main Methods:
- Collected 60 samples: sponges from electrotherapy machines and water from hot pack units.
- Samples were sourced from 5 physical therapy departments across 5 Kuwaiti hospitals.
- Microorganism analysis was conducted in a medical laboratory.
Main Results:
- 68.3% of all samples (41 out of 60) were contaminated with microorganisms.
- Sponges showed a higher contamination rate (68.3% of contaminated samples) compared to water (31.7%).
- Key identified microorganisms included Acinetobacter baumannii (21.9%), Serratia marcescens (12.2%), and Staphylococcus lentus (7.3%).
Conclusions:
- Interferential therapy and electrical stimulation equipment in physical therapy settings present a substantial risk for patient cross-contamination.
- Emphasizes the critical need for physical therapists to implement strict disinfection protocols, proper sponge disposal, and regular replacement schedules.
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