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Inanimate Surfaces as a Source of Hospital Infections Caused by Fungi, Bacteria and Viruses with Particular Emphasis
Agata Jabłońska-Trypuć1, Marcin Makuła2, Maria Włodarczyk-Makuła3
1Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45E Street, 15-351 Białystok, Poland.
Abstract:
The carriers of nosocomial infections are the hands of medical personnel and inanimate surfaces. Both hands and surfaces may be contaminated as a result of contact with the patient, their body fluids, and touching contaminated surfaces in the patient's surroundings. Visually clean inanimate surfaces are an important source of pathogens. Microorganisms have properties thanks to which they can survive in unfavorable conditions, from a few days to several months. Bacteria, viruses and fungi are able to transmit from inanimate surfaces to the skin of the patient and the medical staff. These pathogens include SARS-CoV-2, which can survive on various types of inanimate surfaces, being a potential source of infection. By following the recommendations related to washing and disinfecting hands and surfaces, and using appropriate washing and disinfecting agents with a broad biocidal spectrum, high material compatibility and the shortest duration of action, we contribute to breaking the chain of nosocomial infections.
Insights
Medical personnel hands and surfaces can spread nosocomial infections, including SARS-CoV-2. Proper hand hygiene and surface disinfection are crucial to prevent pathogen transmission and break the chain of infection.
Area of Science:
- Infection Control
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Nosocomial infections are frequently transmitted via contaminated hands of healthcare workers and inanimate surfaces.
- Pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, can survive on surfaces for extended periods, posing a significant infection risk.
- Visually clean surfaces can harbor microorganisms, acting as a reservoir for disease transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the role of hands and inanimate surfaces as carriers of nosocomial infections.
- To emphasize the survival capabilities of microorganisms on environmental surfaces.
- To underscore the importance of disinfection protocols in preventing pathogen spread.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on pathogen survival on surfaces.
- Analysis of transmission routes in healthcare settings.
- Emphasis on hygiene and disinfection practices.
Main Results:
- Hands and surfaces are primary vectors for nosocomial pathogens.
- Microorganisms exhibit remarkable survival rates on inanimate objects.
- SARS-CoV-2 demonstrates persistence on various surfaces, contributing to infection spread.
Conclusions:
- Effective hand washing and surface disinfection are essential to interrupt pathogen transmission.
- Utilizing disinfectants with broad biocidal spectrum and material compatibility is recommended.
- Adherence to hygiene protocols significantly reduces the incidence of nosocomial infections.
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