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
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.