For their study, researchers collected water samples from 20 newly installed electronic faucets and 20 existing manual faucets in three units at a university hospital. The samples were collected from Dec. 15, 2008-Jan. 29, 2009. In addition, the researchers collected cultures from components of four dismantled electronic faucets.
Their analysis revealed at least one sample from 95 percent of electronic faucets was contaminated with Legionella species. By comparison, water samples from only 45 percent of manual faucets showed any cultures. In addition, 14 percent of tested electronic faucet water cultures grew Legionella species even after chlorine dioxide remediation, compared to 3 percent of manual faucets, and all dismantled components of electronic faucets grew Legionella species.
Related Articles on Infection Control:
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Raises Hospitalization Cost by 66%
Study Reaffirms Impact of Air Quality on Surgical Site Infections
Program More Than Doubled Nurse, Physician Hand Hygiene Compliance
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
