Endoscope channel drying, storage, and conditions after reprocessing: How safe are they in clinical practice?

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Adequate drying and proper storage of flexible endoscopes are essential for maintaining quality in their reprocessing. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the drying stages, storage, and channel conditions of endoscopes through borescope inspection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The personnel responsible for endoscope reprocessing were interviewed. Storage conditions at 10 endoscopy facilities were inspected and an internal examination of the channels and ports of the stored equipment was carried out, utilizing a borescope. A total of 74 stored endoscope channels were evaluated. RESULTS: Only 10% of the facilities inspected utilized transport cases for storage and only 10% had rooms exclusively used for storage. Sixty percent of the facilities did not perform any shelf-life control. All the channels evaluated were scratched and fluids were present on 69% of them. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscope reprocessing can be improved through the implementation of drying and storage control and validation tools, as well as the use of borescopes and periodic clinical audits.

[Effects of upstream laboratory processes on the digitization of histological slides]. / Auswirkungen vorgeschalteter Laborprozesse auf die Digitalisierung histologischer Schnittpräparate.

BACKGROUND: Several factors in glass slide (GS) preparation affect the quality and data volume of a digitized histological slide. In particular, reducing contamination and selecting the appropriate coverslip have the potential to significantly reduce scan time and data volume. GOALS: To objectify observations from our institute's digitization process to determine the impact of laboratory processes on the quality of digital histology slides. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Experiment 1: Scanning the GS before and after installation of a central console in the microtomy area to reduce dirt and statistical analysis of the determined parameters. Experiment 2: Re-coverslipping the GS (post diagnostics) with glass and film. Scanning the GS and statistical analysis of the collected parameters. CONCLUSION: The targeted restructuring in the laboratory process leads to a reduction of GS contamination. This causes a significant reduction in the amount of data generated and scanning time required for the digitized sections. Film as a coverslip material minimizes processing errors in contrast to glass. According to our estimation, all the above-mentioned points lead to considerable cost savings.

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

New patient privacy curtains to provide passive infection prevention.

Background: Cloth privacy curtains represent a potentially overlooked high touch surface. Inconsistent cleaning schedules paired with frequent contact allow curtains to provide a surface for the transmission of healthcare associated pathogens. Privacy curtains integrated with antimicrobial and sporicidal agents are shown to reduce the number of bacteria found on the surface of the curtains. The purpose of this initiative is to utilize antimicrobial and sporicidal privacy curtains to mitigate the transmission of healthcare associated pathogens from curtains to patients. Methods: The pre/post-test study design compared the bacterial and sporicidal burden of cloth curtains to the bacterial and sporicidal burden of Endurocide curtains following 20-weeks of use within the inpatient setting of a large military medical hospital. The Endurocide curtains were installed on two inpatient units in the organization. We also compared the overall costs associated with the two different types of curtains. Results: The antimicrobial and sporicidal curtains had a significant reduction in bacterial contamination (32.6 CFUs vs 0.56 CFUs, P < 0.05) after instillation on both units. There were no additional hospital associated infections during the study period. In addition, the direct cost savings of replacing the antimicrobial and sporicidal curtains is estimated to be $20,079.38 annually with a reduction of 66.95 hours in environmental services workload. Conclusion: These curtains represent a cost-effective intervention effective at reducing CFUs with the potential to mitigate the transmission of hospital associated pathogens to patients.

Significant increased bacterial contamination with endoscope overnight and weekend storage times.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Forced-air drying (FAD) cabinets are recommended for storage of reprocessed endoscopes, but financial constraints prevent their universal application. The study aimed to determine bacterial contamination in flexible gastroscopes (FG) channels after storage, in a cabinet with filtered air and UV lights, but without FAD. METHODS: Eight FG in clinical use in an endoscopy service of a large Brazilian hospital were sampled: immediately "Time zero" (N = 50), 12 h "Time 1" (N = 25), and 60 h "Time 2" (N = 25) after reprocessing. Following a flush-brush-flush of channels, 40-mL sterile water and 3 cm of the brush were collected. Each sample was divided, filtered onto two 0.22-µm membranes, and incubated in media without or with disinfectant neutralizer. Automated method was used for identification and antibiotic resistance test of isolated bacteria. RESULTS: Bacterial contamination in times "1" and "2" was 5.9 and 16.1 times greater than that of "Time zero," respectively. Number of positive cultures in media with and without neutralizer was similar at times "1" and "2," while media with neutralizer produced more positive cultures at "Time zero." Most bacteria isolated at "Time 2" were Gram-negative rods (52.3%) and showed resistance to one or more antibiotics (65%). CONCLUSION: Bacterial contamination was detected on reprocessed FG stored in non-FAD cabinets overnight (12 h) and increased with longer storage time (60 h). The contamination source is likely to be bacteria in biofilm which multiply in the absence of FAD. Evidence-based criteria should be available for storage time according to the cabinet available.

A cross-sectional study on bacterial contamination on the touchscreens and posterior surfaces of smartphones of emergency department staff.

RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Cleaning smartphones of healthcare workers (HCWs) is generally recommended; however, most previous studies on bacterial contamination of smartphones assessed touchscreens alone. This study compared the prevalence of bacterial contamination on touchscreens and posterior surfaces of smartphones owned by HCWs. METHOD: A cross-sectional study of smartphones used by HCWs working at an emergency department (ED) at a Japanese tertiary care hospital was conducted. Bacteria on each surface of the smartphones were isolated separately. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the prevalence of microbial contamination on each surface of the smartphones and the types of associated bacterial species. Fisher's exact test was used to compare dichotomous outcomes. RESULTS: The smartphones of 40 HCWs working in the ED of a Japanese tertiary care hospital were examined. The touchscreens and posterior surfaces were contaminated in 26 (65.0%) and 36 (90.0%) smartphones, respectively, indicating the posterior surface was more frequently contaminated (p = 0.014). Bacillus species and coagulase-negative staphylococci were most frequently isolated from each surface of the smartphones. CONCLUSIONS: The posterior surface of a smartphone was more significantly contaminated with bacteria than the touchscreen. Both surfaces of smartphones need to be cleaned to prevent bacterial contamination in healthcare environments.

Cross-contamination rate of reusable flexible bronchoscopes: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Background: Bronchoscopy is generally a safe and efficient procedure. However, the risk of cross-contamination with reusable flexible bronchoscopes (RFB) has been detected in several outbreaks worldwide. Aim: To estimate the average cross-contamination rate of patient-ready RFBs based on available published data. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review in PubMed and Embase to investigate the cross-contamination rate of RFB. Included studies identified indicator organisms or colony forming units (CFU) levels, and total number of samples >10. The Contamination threshold was defined according to the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Nurse and Associates (ESGE-ESGENA) guidelines. To calculate the total contamination rate, a random effects model was applied. Heterogeneity was analysed via a Q-test and illustrated in a forest plot. Publication bias was analysed via the Egger's regression test and illustrated in a funnel plot. Results: Eight studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The random effects model included 2169 samples and 149 events (positive tests). The total RFB cross-contamination rate was 8.69% ± 1.86 (standard division [SD]) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.06-12.33%). The result showed significant heterogeneity of 90% and publication bias. Discussion: Significant heterogeneity and publication bias is likely associated with varying methodology and aversion towards publishing negative findings, respectively. Based on the cross-contamination rate an infection control paradigm shift is needed to ensure patient safety. We recommend to follow the Spaulding classification and classify RFBs as critical items. Accordingly, infection control measures such as obligatory surveillance, and implementing single-use alternatives must be considered where feasible.

Incidence of infectious complications following ultrasound-guided percutaneous musculoskeletal interventions with the use of an uncovered transducer footprint.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of infectious complications following ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions performed with a disinfected uncovered ultrasound transducer footprint. METHODS: Electronic medical records of all patients who underwent an ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedure (including injection, calcific lavage, or ganglion cyst aspiration) performed by any of the 14 interventional musculoskeletal radiologists at our institution between January 2013 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed to identify procedure site infections. Biopsies and joint aspirations were excluded. The procedures were performed using a disinfected uncovered transducer footprint. First, an automated chart review identified cases with (1) positive answers to the nurse's post-procedure call, (2) an International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnostic code related to a musculoskeletal infection, or (3) an antibiotic prescription within 30 days post-procedure. Then, these cases were manually reviewed for evidence of procedure site infection. RESULTS: In total, 6511 procedures were included. The automated chart review identified 3 procedures (2 patients) in which post-procedural fever was reported during the nurse's post-procedure call, 33 procedures (28 patients) with an ICD code for a musculoskeletal infection, and 220 procedures (216 patients) with an antibiotic prescription within 30 post-procedural days. The manual chart review of these patients revealed no cases of confirmed infection and 1 case (0.015%) of possible site infection. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of infectious complications after an ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedure performed with an uncovered transducer footprint is extremely low. This information allows radiologists to counsel their patients more precisely when obtaining informed consent. KEY POINTS: • Infectious complications after ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedures performed with a disinfected uncovered transducer footprint are extremely rare.

Urine test strips and iodine contamination: a tricky trick in iodine nutrition surveys.

OBJECTIVE: A recent report from the Faroe Islands suggested mild iodine deficiency among women aged 40 years and older. New preliminary results showed an average urinary iodine concentration of 457 µg/L. This spurious finding encouraged the present report. METHODS: A subset of 17 consecutive pregnant women from an ongoing study provided an additional morning spot urine sample; one part was tested for a few seconds with a test strip for glucose, protein, and erythrocytes, and the other was left untouched. The women recorded the previous week's intake of iodine-rich foods. Additionally, 12 tap water samples were collected such that three samples were sealed immediately, the remaining were strip tested for 10, 30 and 60 s, respectively. Urine and water samples were analysed using the ceri/arsen method after alkaline ashing. RESULTS: Median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in pristine urine samples was 116 µg/L (IQR 79-204 µg/L; range 26-475 µg/L), and positively associated with iodine-rich food intake. UIC increase with test-strip dip varied from 10 to 94 times the non-dip value. In tap water, the pristine samples had an iodine concentration of 2-4 µg/L, which increased to 10,000 µg/L after 60 s. CONCLUSION: Urine samples exposed to test strips can be contaminated within a few seconds leading to unreliable iodine results. Therefore, it is crucial that the study protocol clearly states the procedure for urine sample collection and handling, strict adherence to protocol, and that utensils used are dedicated to collecting urine to measure iodine.

Aislamiento microbiológico de superficies inanimadas en contacto con pacientes en un hospital peruano / Microbiological isolation of inanimate surfaces in contact with patients in a peruvian hospital

Resumen Objetivo: describir el perfil microbiológico de las superficies inanimadas en contacto con el paciente en un hospital nivel III de la seguridad social de Chiclayo, Perú. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal, con los datos de los informes del Control microbiológico cualitativo de ambientes físicos de 5 servicios de un Hospital de Chiclayo nivel III del Perú. El método para la identificación de microorganismos fue el sistema automatizado VITEK MS. Se presentan análisis des criptivos como frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: Se reportaron un total de 177 aislamientos, de los cuales 97,74% (173) fueron positivos, de estos, el 50,87% (88) estuvo conformado por bacilos gram negativos, siendo el microorganismo más aislado Acinetobacter baumannii (17 muestras) seguido de Rhizobium radiobacter (16) y Sphingomonas paucimobilis 13. Conclusiones: El ambiente hospitalario se encuentra altamente contaminado, siendo la mayoría microorganismos patógenos. Estos resultados guardarían relación con el prolongado tiempo de vida de los microorganismos en las superficies inertes y el proceso de limpieza y desinfección del ambiente hospitalario, por lo que la evaluación de su eficacia y el posible desarrollo de nuevas y mejores técnicas de limpieza deben ser motivo de investigación.

Abstract Objective: to describe the microbiological profile of inanimate surfaces in contact with the patient in a social security level III hospital in Chiclayo, Peru. Material and methods: An observational, descriptive, transversal study was carried out with the data from the reports of the Microbiological Qualitative Control of Physical Environments of 5 services of a Chiclayo Hospital level III in Peru. The method for the identification of microorganisms was the automated system VITEK MS. Descriptive analyses such as frequencies and percentages are presented. Results: A total of 177 isolations were reported, from which 97.74% (173) were positive, of these, 50.87% (88) were composed by gram-negative bacilli, being the most isolated microorganism Acinetobacter baumannii (17 samples) followed by Rhizobium radiobacter (16) and Sphingomonas paucimobilis 13. Conclusions: The hospital environment is highly contaminated, being most of them pathogenic microorganisms. These results would be related to the long life of microorganisms on inert surfaces and the process of cleaning and disinfection of the hospital environment, so the evaluation of its effectiveness and the possible development of new and better cleaning techniques should be investigated.

Biofilme em smartphones de profissionais da saúde: padrão de uso e de descontaminação do aparelho / Biofilm on smartphones of healthcare professionals: pattern of device use and decontamination

Objetivo: avaliar a presença de biofilme nas películas de smartphones de profissionais da saúde, investigar o padrão de uso e de descontaminação dos smartphones no ambiente de assistência à saúde em um hospital de médio porte. Métodos: estudo analítico e transversal, realizado com profissionais de saúde que possuíam smartphone. Foram realizadas entrevistas estruturadas e a presença de biofilme nas películas de vidro dos smartphones foi avaliada pela microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Resultados: todas as amostras de películas foram positivas para presença de biofilme, mesmo após descontaminação com álcool a 70%. Dos participantes, 96,4% utilizavam smartphone no ambiente de trabalho, a maioria utilizava o aparelho para fins pessoais e descontaminavam com álcool a 70% com frequência irregular. Conclusões: o smartphone pode servir como fômite, visto que biofilmes foram detectados na superfície das películas. Esses achados apontam para a necessidade de políticas de controle de infecção relacionadas ao uso dos smartphones.

Objective: to evaluate the presence of biofilm on the protective glass films of smartphones of health professionals, to investigate the pattern of use and decontamination of smartphones in the health care environment of a medium-sized hospital. Methods: analytical and cross-sectional study, carried out with health professionals with smartphones. Structured interviews were carried out and the presence of biofilm on the protective glass films of smartphones was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Results: all film samples were positive for the presence of biofilm, even after decontamination with alcohol 70%. 96.4% of the participants used a smartphone in the work environment, most used the device for personal purposes and decontaminated it with alcohol 70% with irregular frequency. Conclusion(s): the smartphones can serve as a fomite, considering that biofilms were detected on the surface of the films. These findings point to the need for infection control policies related to the use of smartphones.

Storage of gastrointestinal endoscopes: when is the safe time for re-use? / Almacenamiento de endoscopios gastrointestinales: ¿cuál el tiempo seguro para la reutilización? / Armazenamento de endoscópios gastrointestinais: qual o tempo seguro para o reúso?

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify the safe storage time for the use of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes after high-level disinfection, as well as the defining criteria for this time. Methods: an integrative literature review was carried out in the Virtual Health Library, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, considering original articles published since 2000. Results: eleven articles were selected, whose storage times ranged from 1 to 56 days, with a predominance of one to seven days (73%). Several criteria were used to define this time, predominantly the premise of efficient processing (100%), use of alcohol flush (64%), use of drying cabinets (18%), among others. Conclusions: the criteria for determining the storage time did not show a consensus for clinical practice. Expanding the discussion of this theme with the definition of the minimum necessary conditions is of fundamental importance for the reduction of risks and safety of the procedure and the patient.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar el tiempo de almacenamiento seguro para utilización de endoscopios flexibles gastrointestinales después de la desinfección de alto nivel, así como los criterios definidores de ese tiempo. Métodos: realizado una revisión integrativa de la literatura en la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud, PubMed, Scopus y Web of Science, considerando artículos originales publicados desde 2000. Resultados: fueron seleccionados 11 artículos, cuyos tiempos de almacenamiento variaron entre 1 y 56 días, con predominio de uno a siete días (73%). Utilizados diversos criterios para definición de ese tiempo, siendo predominantes la premisa del procesamiento eficiente (100%), uso de flush de alcohol (64%), armarios de secado (18%), entre otros. Conclusiones: los criterios para determinación del tiempo de almacenamiento no evidenciaron un consenso para práctica clínica. Ampliar la discusión de esa temática con definición de las condiciones mínimas necesarias es de fundamental importancia para la reducción de riesgos y seguridad del procedimiento y del paciente.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar o tempo de armazenamento seguro para utilização de endoscópios flexíveis gastrointestinais após a desinfecção de alto nível, bem como os critérios definidores desse tempo. Métodos: realizou-se uma revisão integrativa da literatura na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science, considerando artigos originais publicados desde 2000. Resultados: foram selecionados 11 artigos, cujos tempos de armazenamento variaram entre 1 e 56 dias, com predomínio de um a sete dias (73%). Utilizaram-se diversos critérios para definição desse tempo, sendo predominantes a premissa do processamento eficiente (100%), uso de flush de álcool (64%), uso de armários de secagem (18%), entre outros. Conclusões: os critérios para determinação do tempo de armazenamento não evidenciaram um consenso para prática clínica. Ampliar a discussão dessa temática com definição das condições mínimas necessárias é de fundamental importância para a redução de riscos e segurança do procedimento e do paciente.

Evaluation of microbial contamination on cuff syringe, cuff pressure gauge, and their surroundings in the operating room.

BACKGROUND: Some institutions reuse cuff syringes and do not periodically sterilize cuff pressure gauges. Pathogenic bacterial contamination of such equipment may increase the probability of pathogen transmission to patients during anesthetic procedures. Therefore, microbial contamination on cuff syringes, cuff pressure gauges, and their surroundings was assessed in the operating rooms of a university-affiliated tertiary care hospital in Japan. METHODS: This study was conducted between April and May 2019 in 14 operating suites at a hospital. The following sites in each operating suite were sampled: cuff syringe (inner/outer components), outer components of cuff pressure gauge, cuff syringe and cuff pressure gauge storage drawers, and computer mice. The swabs were directly streaked onto agar plates and incubated. Then, the bacterial species were identified using mass spectrometry. RESULTS: The highest bacterial isolation was observed in computer mice, followed by the outside of cuff pressure gauges and the drawers of cuff pressure gauges (92.9, 78.6, and 64.3%, respectively). Most of the identified bacteria belonged to the Bacillus species, with colonization rates of 85.7, 57.1, and 57.1% on computer mice, cuff pressure gauges, and cuff pressure gauge storage drawers, respectively. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was found in 35.7% of the specimens and was more prevalent on computer mice (71.4%), followed by on cuff pressure gauges (64.3%). CONCLUSION: Anesthesiologists should be aware of the possible pathogen contamination risk from cuff syringes, cuff pressure gauges, or associated equipment and take appropriate infection control measures to minimize the risk of pathogenic transmission.

Prevalence of bacterial contamination of touchscreens and posterior surfaces of smartphones owned by healthcare workers: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Mobile phones used by healthcare workers (HCWs) are contaminated with bacteria, but the posterior surface of smartphones has rarely been studied. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of microbial contamination of touchscreens and posterior surfaces of smartphones owned by HCWs. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of smartphones used by HCWs employed at two intensive care units at a Japanese tertiary care hospital was performed. Bacteria on each surface of the smartphones were isolated separately. The primary outcomes were the prevalence of microbial contamination on each surface of smartphones and associated bacterial species. Fisher's exact test was used to compare dichotomous outcomes. RESULTS: Eighty-four HCWs participated in this study. The touchscreen and posterior surface were contaminated in 27 (32.1%) and 39 (46.4%) smartphones, respectively, indicating that the posterior surface was more frequently contaminated (p = 0.041). Bacillus species and coagulase-negative staphylococci were isolated from each surface of the smartphones. CONCLUSIONS: The posterior surface of a smartphone was more significantly contaminated with bacteria than the touchscreen, regardless of having a cover. Therefore, routine cleaning of the posterior surface of a smartphone is recommended.

Perfil bacteriano das superfícies e equipamentos da Clínica Ortopédica de um Hospital Universitário / Bacterial profile of surfaces and equipment of the Orthopedic Clinic of a University Hospital / Perfil bacteriano de las superficies y equipos de la Clínica Ortopédica de un Hospital Universitario

Justificativa e Objetivos: As Infecções Relacionadas a Assistência à Saúde (IRAS) são um importante problema de saúde pública que causa impactos negativos nos custos hospitalares e prognóstico dos pacientes. Diante da importância do ambiente hospitalar no desenvolvimento das IRAS, objetiva-se avaliar o perfil bacteriano em superfícies e equipamentos da Clínica Ortopédica do Hospital Universitário do Vale do São Francisco. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal e descritivo de natureza quantitativa. As amostras foram coletadas em 13 enfermarias, onde foram amostrados superfícies e equipamentos dos leitos e das enfermarias, utilizando-se swabs embebidos em solução salina e um molde de papel filtro de área de 1cm2 a fim de padronizar as amostras. Após a passagem do swab, os mesmos foram armazenados em tubo contendo 5mL de meio líquido BHI (Brain Heart Infusion). Em seguida, as amostras foram transportadas para o Laboratório de Análises Clínicas/Setor Microbiologia, onde foram realizadas as análises microbiológicas. Resultados: Observou-se um total de 257 bactérias, sendo 5,11% possíveis causadoras de infecção hospitalar e 79% Staphylococcus coagulase negativa, as quais foram submetidas aos antibiogramas e mostraram diferentes perfis de resistência. A maçaneta do banheiro, uma superfície de alto toque, apresentou a maior variedade de espécies entre as superfícies avaliadas. Conclusão: Superfícies e equipamentos da clínica avaliada apresentam bactérias possíveis causadoras de infecção hospitalar com diferentes perfis de resistência antimicrobiana, contribuindo para possíveis infecções cruzadas.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: Las infecciones asociadas a la asistencia sanitaria (IAAS) son un importante problema de salud pública que impacta negativamente en los costos hospitalarios y el pronóstico de los pacientes. Dada la importancia del entorno hospitalario en el desarrollo de las IAAS, el objetivo fue evaluar el perfil bacteriano en superficies y equipos de la Clínica Ortopédica del Hospital Universitário do Vale do São Francisco. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal, descriptivo y cuantitativo. Las muestras se recolectaron en 13 salas, cada sala con cuatro camas y una se eligió al azar, donde se muestrearon las superficies y el equipo utilizando hisopos empapados en solución salina y un molde de papel de filtro de 1cm2 para estandarizar las muestras. Después de pasar el hisopo, se almacenaron en un tubo que contenía 5 ml de medio líquido BHI (infusión cerebro corazón). Luego, las muestras fueron transportadas al Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos/Sector de Microbiología, donde se realizaron los análisis microbiológicos. Resultados: Se observó un total de 257 bacterias, de las cuales el 5,11% fueron posibles causas de infección hospitalaria y el 79% Staphylococcus coagulasa negativo. Se realizaron antibiogramas de estos y se encontraron diferentes perfiles de resistencia. La manija del baño, una superficie de alto tacto, presentó la mayor variedad de especies entre las superficies evaluadas. Conclusiones: Las superficies y el equipo de la clínica evaluada presentan posibles bacterias que causan infección hospitalaria con diferentes perfiles de resistencia a los antimicrobianos, lo que contribuye a posibles infecciones cruzadas.(AU)

Background and Objectives: Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) are an important public health problem that impacts negatively on hospital costs and patient prognosis. Given the importance of the hospital environment in the development of HAIs, the objective was to evaluate the bacterial profile on surfaces and equipment of the Orthopedic Clinic of the Hospital Universitário do Vale do São Francisco. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, quantitative study. Samples were collected in 13 wards, each ward with four beds and one was chosen at random, where surfaces and equipment were sampled using swabs soaked in saline and a 1cm2 filter paper mold to standardize the samples. After passing the swab, they were stored in a tube containing 5mL of BHI (Brain Heart Infusion) liquid medium. Then, samples were transported to the Clinical Analysis Laboratory/Microbiology Sector where the microbiological analyzes were performed. Results: In total, 257 bacteria were observed, of which 5.11% were possible causes of hospital infection and 79% coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Antibiograms of these were performed and different resistance profiles were found. The bathroom doorknob, a high-touch surface, presented the greatest variety of species among the evaluated surfaces. Conclusion: Surfaces and equipment of the evaluated clinic present possible bacteria that cause hospital infection with different profiles of antimicrobial resistance, contributing to possible cross infections.(AU)

Glove and instrument changing to prevent bacterial contamination in infected wound debridement and closure procedures: A prospective observational study.

Many surgeons use a single table of instruments for both excisional debridement and coverage/closure of infected wounds. This study investigates the effectiveness of a two-table set-up of sterile instruments, in addition to glove exchange, to reduce instrument cross-contamination during these procedures. This is a prospective, single-site, institutional review board-approved observational study of surgical debridements of infected wounds over a 17-month period. Two separate sterile surgical tables were used for each case: Table A for initial wound debridement (debridement set-up) and Table B for wound coverage/closure (clean set-up). Swabs of each table and its respective instruments were taken after debridement but prior to coverage/closure. The primary outcome of interest was bacterial growth at 48 hours. There were 72 surgical cases included in this study. Culture results of Table A demonstrated bacterial growth in 23 of 72 (32%) cases at 48 hours compared with 5of 72 (7%) from Table B (P = .001). These data suggest that there is significant bacterial contamination of surgical instruments used for debridement of infected wounds. Use of a two-table set-up reduced instrument cross-contamination by 78%, suggesting avoidable re-contamination of the wound.

Sampling Methods and Risk Stratification Regarding Environmental Contamination by SARS-CoV-2.

INTRODUCTION: Transmission of COVID-19 through close contact and droplets is well established, but the influence of aerosol and surface contamination remains to be determined. Literature is scarce and inconsistent about the viable virus particles free-distance from infected patients, as well as about different swabbing methods for surface contamination evaluation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the most sensitive method for the assessment of surface contamination, classify the likelihood of environmental contamination in risk zones and compare the environmental contamination between oxygenation and ventilatory support. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Swabs from potentially contaminated surfaces in a COVID-19 ward, with patients treated with different types of oxygen and ventilatory support, were collected. Three types of swabs were compared in order to evaluate the most sensitive collection method. For risk zone categorization, areas were divided according to the distance from the patient. RESULTS: Of the 63 swabs collected, 17 (27%) tested positive for the presence of SARS-CoV-2. The highest positivity rate was observed with the sterile premoistened swab with saline (n = 8; 38%), but without statistically significant differences. The highest number of positive samples were collected from the high-risk zones, specifically those located one meter from the patient (n = 13; 48%), with statistically significant differences. Only the rooms of patients supported with non-invasive ventilation or high-flow nasal cannula had evidence of bedroom contamination, with 45% and 27% of swab positivity, with statistically significant differences. DISCUSSION: Our findings favour the premoistened swab without transport medium for surface contamination assessment, even though without statistical differences. A statistically significant trend supporting the division in risk zones, according to the distance from the patient, was also identified. The higher positivity rate from the non-invasive ventilation and high-flow nasal cannula bedrooms suggests a significant association between ventilatory strategies and surface contamination, probably due to higher particle dispersion. CONCLUSION: Our findings support the use of the sterile premoistened swab without preservation medium, the classification of risk areas considering the distance from the patient, and the variability of RNA dispersion between oxygenation and ventilatory support.

Introdução: A transmissão da COVID-19 através do contacto e gotículas está bem estabelecida, mas a importância da sua transmissão através do aerossol e da contaminação das superfícies permanece por determinar. A literatura é escassa e inconsistente em relação à distância mínima livre de partículas víricas, desde um paciente, e também acerca dos mais adequados métodos de colheita de zaragatoas para avaliação da contaminação das superfícies. Os objectivos deste estudo foram avaliar qual o método mais sensível para avaliação da contaminação de superfícies, classificar a contaminação ambiental de acordo com zonas de risco e comparar a contaminação ambiental sob diferentes dispositivos para oxigenoterapia e suporte ventilatório. Material e Métodos: Realizamos colheitas de zaragatoas em superfícies potencialmente contaminadas numa ala COVID-19, onde se encontravam doentes sob diferentes dispositivos para oxigenoterapia e suporte ventilatório. Para avaliar o método de recolha mais sensível para verificação da contaminação das superfícies, comparámos três tipos de zaragatoas. Para a classificação das zonas de risco, dividimos as áreas de acordo com a distância ao doente. Resultados: Das 63 zaragatoas, 17 (27%) testaram positivo para SARS-CoV-2 (27%). A maior positividade foi observada na zaragatoa estéril pré-humedecida com soro fisiológico (n = 8; 38%), mas sem significância estatística. O maior número de amostras positivas obteve-se nas zonas de alto risco, especialmente aquelas a um metro do paciente (n = 13; 48%), com diferenças significativas. Apenas os quartos dos doentes sob ventilação não invasiva e cânula nasal de alto fluxo tiveram evidência de contaminação com 45% e 27% de positividade das zaragatoas, e significância estatística. Discussão: Os nossos resultados favorecem a zaragatoa estéril pré-humedecida sem meio de preservação para avaliação da contaminação das superfícies, embora sem significância estatística. Os resultados suportam também com significância estatística a divisão em zonas de risco de acordo com a distância ao doente. A maior positividade obtida nos quartos dos pacientes que se encontravam a utilizar ventilação não invasiva e cânula nasal de alto fluxo sugere uma associação, com significância, entre as estratégias ventilatória e a contaminação ambiental, provavelmente relacionada com uma maior dispersão das partículas. Conclusão: Os nossos resultados apoiam o uso da zaragatoa estéril pré-humedecida sem meio de preservação, a classificação das áreas de risco considerando a distância ao doente, e a variabilidade da dispersão do RNA entre diferentes dispositivos para oxigenoterapia e ventilação.

A multi-center outbreak of Candida tropicalis bloodstream infections associated with contaminated hemodialysis machine prime buckets.

BACKGROUND: Outbreaks of fungal bloodstream infection (BSI) are uncommon among hemodialysis patients. We investigated an outbreak of Candida tropicalis BSIs involving patients at 3 of 4 affiliated hemodialysis units. METHODS: An investigation included a review of records of patients with C tropicalis BSI, a case-control study, and cultures of medications, hands of personnel, dialysis equipment, and water samples. RESULTS: Eight patients developed C tropicalis BSIs in a 3-month period. Compared to controls, cases had a higher proportion of preceding dialyses performed on a machine with a contaminated saline prime bucket (SPB) (P= .02). Observations revealed that SPBs at units A-C were rinsed with tap water, were not routinely disinfected, and that priming tubing was allowed to contact fluid in SPBs. C tropicalis was recovered from the main compartment and hollow handle of SPBs and from other environmental samples. C tropicalis isolates from patients, SPBs and other environmental samples had indistinguishable pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns. Following routine disinfection of SPBs, the outbreak terminated. CONCLUSIONS: This outbreak was likely due to inadequate disinfection of SPBs. The findings emphasize the importance of disinfection of SPBs. Current use of identical SPBs warrants further evaluation of hollow SPB handles as a potential infection risk.

Simulation with a colour indicator to help reduce contamination during airway management in COVID-19 times: An experience from a tertiary centre in India.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has initiated modified protocols for aerosol-generating procedures. A simulation study using dye was conducted to highlight contamination at intubation and extubation and to encourage adherence to the new COVID-19 protocol among anaesthesia personnel in our institution. METHODS: A video demonstrating the new COVID-19 protocols was circulated in the Department of Anaesthesiology a week prior to the study. Thirty teams, each comprising an anaesthesia resident and a staff technician, were enroled. Each team was asked to demonstrate the steps of preparation, intubation and extubation on a mannequin in a COVID-19 scenario. Checklists were used to assess points of contamination and adherence to the protocols. Following debriefing, a repeat simulation was conducted. The use of a dye highlighted the points of contamination. The study subjects provided feedback on the usefulness of the session and practical difficulties encountered in adapting to the new protocols. RESULTS: The average contamination scores decreased by 3.4 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.4-4.4, P < 0.001) in the post-debrief session. Adherence to the steps of the modified protocol improved by a score of 2.7 (CI: 3.6-1.83) among anaesthesiologists and by 4.3 (CI: 5.3-3.3) among technicians. Further, 93% felt that the use of the colour indicator reinforced awareness of the possible points of contamination. CONCLUSION: Simulation with a low-fidelity mannequin by using colour indicator for secretions is an effective teaching tool to reduce health hazards during airway management in COVID-19 times.