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Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection01:30

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Cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization are the methods that help to break the infection chain and prevent disease.
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Radiation and filtration are essential tools for microbial control, targeting microorganisms through distinct mechanisms. Radiation eliminates microbes by damaging their DNA, either killing them or inhibiting their growth. Based on wavelength, radiation is classified into two types: nonionizing and ionizing radiation.Non-ionizing radiation, such as UV radiation (200–400 nm), is absorbed by DNA, causing defects that effectively disinfect surfaces, air, and water, including safety cabinets.
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Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods01:29

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As used in a healthcare facility, sterilization destroys all microorganisms through physical or chemical methods. The physical method includes steam, dry heat, boiling water, and radiation.
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In healthcare, the chemical method of sterilization uses chemical sterilants to treat surgical instruments and medical supplies to help prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens to patients. Due to heat sensitivity, most medical supplies and equipment should not be exposed to high temperatures. These parts include rubber, plastic, glass, and other similar elements.
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The Portable Chemical Sterilizer PCS, D-FENS, and D-FEND ALL: Novel Chlorine Dioxide Decontamination Technologies for the Military
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Continuous surface and air decontamination technologies: Current concepts and controversies.

Curtis J Donskey1

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American Journal of Infection Control
|October 27, 2023
PubMed
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Continuous surface and air decontamination technologies offer potential benefits in healthcare settings. Further research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of these advanced disinfection methods.

Keywords:
Electronic air cleanerQuaternary ammonium compound

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Area of Science:

  • Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology
  • Environmental Health
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Continuous decontamination technologies can supplement routine cleaning in healthcare settings.
  • Quaternary ammonium disinfectants show residual antimicrobial activity, but real-world efficacy varies.
  • Concerns exist regarding the durability of supplemental coatings against routine cleaning.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current state and future directions of continuous surface and air decontamination technologies.
  • To address the need for rigorous evaluation of novel disinfection methods.
  • To highlight regulatory considerations for residual antimicrobial coatings.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on continuous disinfection technologies.
  • Analysis of quaternary ammonium-based disinfectants and supplemental coatings.
  • Discussion of emerging technologies like far-ultraviolet-C and electronic air cleaners.

Main Results:

  • Quaternary ammonium disinfectants have shown mixed results in reducing pathogen recovery.
  • New EPA guidance requires testing for durability against abrasion and chemicals.
  • Far-ultraviolet-C and electronic air cleaning show promise but require more safety and efficacy studies.

Conclusions:

  • Continuous decontamination technologies are promising adjuncts to traditional cleaning protocols.
  • Long-term safety and efficacy data are crucial for advanced technologies like far-ultraviolet-C.
  • Further real-world studies are essential to validate electronic air cleaning technologies in healthcare environments.