The researchers studied the containment capability of airborne infection isolation rooms, or AIIRs, by measuring air change rates of the patient room and anteroom (waiting room), pressure differences, contaminant removal and contaminant transmission during door openings and human movement. The researchers used a tracer gas method, which imitates the release of infectious agents from patients.
The study found a high air change rate in AIIRs does not ensure efficient removal of infectious agents in the breathing zone of a healthcare worker. Instead, the researchers found the local airflow patterns are more important. A high mean negative pressure between an AIIR and its surroundings was found to effectively curb particle transmission outside an AIIR.
More articles on clinical leadership and infection control:
Fitbit data could help hospitals battle nurse fatigue
3 patients die after contracting Legionnaires’ disease in Wisconsin hospital
Florida children’s hospitals may have to post heart surgery death rates online
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
