Hospital microbial environment: need for continual surveillance

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Hospital Epidemiology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pseudomonas cepacia identified as a significant pathogen in a nosocomial infection epidemic.
• Severe infections were linked to contaminated "sterile" water and "in-use" dilution antiseptic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the source identification and control strategies for a Pseudomonas cepacia outbreak.
• To present findings on the long-term effectiveness of implemented control measures.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiological investigation to trace the source of Pseudomonas cepacia.
• Implementation of enhanced maintenance and surveillance for water systems.
• Modification of antiseptic type and strict adherence to "in-use" dilution concentrations.

Main Results:

• The nosocomial infection epidemic was successfully controlled after identifying contaminated water and antiseptic.
• Regular equipment maintenance and surveillance resolved sterile water issues.
• Changing antiseptic type and ensuring correct dilution eliminated antiseptic-related problems.

Conclusions:

• Contaminated "sterile" water and "in-use" antiseptics were the sources of the Pseudomonas cepacia outbreak.
• Targeted interventions effectively controlled the epidemic and prevented recurrence.
• A four-year follow-up confirmed the sustained efficacy of the control measures.