Assessment of a novel continuous cleaning device using metatranscriptomics in diverse hospital environments

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Health
• Infection Control

Background:

• Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are often transmitted via contaminated surfaces.
• Routine cleaning may not fully eliminate microbial reservoirs on high-touch surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of cleanSURFACES® technology in reducing microbial burden on high-touch surfaces.
• To assess the impact of cleanSURFACES® on microbial community composition in clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of high-touch surface swabs using metatranscriptomic sequencing (CSI-Dx™).
• Study conducted in an Emergency Department and an inpatient Oncology Ward.
• Evaluation of microbial changes at baseline and post-intervention timepoints (Days 1, 7, 14, 28).

Main Results:

• No significant difference in microbial richness observed.
• Significant shifts in microbial community structure (beta diversity) post-intervention.
• Reductions in specific pathogens like coagulase-negative staphylococci and *Malassezia restricta* noted.

Conclusions:

• cleanSURFACES® technology, alongside routine disinfection, impacts microbial community composition on hospital surfaces.
• The technology shows potential for enhancing infection control by limiting microbial re-contamination.
• Findings support the use of cleanSURFACES® in diverse patient care areas.