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A multicenter investigation to characterize the risk for pathogen transmission from healthcare facility sinks
Scott A Gestrich1, Annette L Jencson1, Jennifer L Cadnum1
11Research Service,Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center,Cleveland,Ohio.
Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology
|December 12, 2018
Abstract:
In 4 hospitals, we demonstrated frequent dispersal of fluorescent tracer and fluoroquinolone-resistant gram-negative bacilli from sink drains to sink bowls and to surfaces outside the bowl. Fluorescent tracer dispersal correlated inversely with the depth of the sink bowl. Modifications in sink design could substantially reduce the risk for pathogen dissemination.
Insights
Sink drains frequently disperse resistant bacteria and tracers to sink bowls and surrounding areas. Deeper sink bowls reduce this dispersal, suggesting design modifications can lower pathogen spread in hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Disease
- Hospital Epidemiology
- Environmental Microbiology
Background:
- Sink drains are potential reservoirs for healthcare-associated pathogens.
- Gram-negative bacilli, including fluoroquinolone-resistant strains, can contaminate hospital environments.
- Pathogen dispersal from sinks poses a risk for patient and staff exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dispersal of contaminants from hospital sink drains.
- To assess the role of sink design in pathogen dissemination.
- To identify strategies for reducing microbial spread in healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Conducted studies in four hospitals.
- Utilized fluorescent tracer to track dispersal.
- Monitored the presence of fluoroquinolone-resistant gram-negative bacilli.
Main Results:
- Frequent dispersal of tracer and resistant bacteria from sink drains was observed.
- Dispersal extended to sink bowls and external surfaces.
- Fluorescent tracer dispersal showed an inverse correlation with sink bowl depth.
Conclusions:
- Hospital sink drains are significant sources of microbial dispersal.
- Sink bowl depth is a critical factor in limiting pathogen spread.
- Modifying sink design offers a viable strategy to reduce healthcare-associated infections.
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