Related Experiment Videos
[Floor cleaning methods of patients' room. Effect on bacteria, dirt and particles]
B M Andersen1, N Solheim, O Krüger
1Seksjon for sykehushygiene, Ullevål sykehus, Oslo.
Abstract:
The effect of floor cleaning on bacteria, organic materials and particles in the patients' rooms was studied at Ullevål University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. Four cleaning methods were compared; dust-adhesive (dry), humified, wet mopping, and regular wet washing (RWW) without a mop. The following tests were taken from the floor before and after cleaning: bacterial counts (colony forming units = CFU) and ATP (presence of organic materials), and from the air: CFU/m3 air, and particle counts/m3 air. Humified mopping and dry mopping reduced the bacterial counts from the floor by 75% and 55% respectively (p = 0.005 and p = 0.014, using contact medium). The wet mopping had no statistically significant effect, while the wet washing even increased the CFU on the floor by 35-50% (p = 0.017 with contact medium, and p = 0.028 with petrifilm). The two wet methods were the most effective, however, in removing organic materials from the floor; 65% to 70% reduction (p = 0.051 and p =0.008). The CFU/m3 air was low both before (50-130 CFU/m3) and after (70-110 CFU/m3) cleaning. A slight increase in airborne particles was measured after dry mopping. Combined use of humified mopping and wet mopping is recommended, but is dependent on a well prepared and finished floor surface.
Insights
Humified and dry mopping effectively reduce floor bacteria, while wet methods excel at removing organic materials. Combined mopping strategies are recommended for optimal patient room hygiene.
Area of Science:
- Infection Control
- Environmental Hygiene
- Microbiology
Context:
- Hospital-acquired infections are a significant concern in patient care settings.
- Effective floor cleaning is crucial for reducing microbial contamination in healthcare environments.
- This study evaluated four distinct floor cleaning methods in a hospital setting.
Purpose:
- To compare the efficacy of dust-adhesive (dry), humified, wet mopping, and regular wet washing (RWW) in reducing bacteria, organic materials, and particles on patient room floors.
- To assess the impact of different cleaning methods on airborne microbial counts and particle levels.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimal floor cleaning practices in hospitals.
Summary:
- Humified mopping reduced bacterial counts by 75% and dry mopping by 55% (p < 0.05).
- Wet mopping showed no significant effect on bacterial counts, while RWW increased them by 35-50% (p < 0.05).
- Wet cleaning methods were most effective in removing organic materials (65-70% reduction, p < 0.05), with minimal impact on airborne bacteria and particles.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that a combination of humified and wet mopping may be the most effective strategy for comprehensive floor decontamination.
- The study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate cleaning methods based on the specific contaminants and desired outcomes.
- Recommendations emphasize the need for well-prepared floor surfaces to maximize cleaning efficiency and minimize potential for increased contamination.