Quantitative characterization of high-touch surfaces in emergency departments and hemodialysis facilities
Tina Z. Wang, Matthew S. Simon, Lars F. Westblade, Lisa Saiman, E. Yoko Furuya, David P. Calfee
Abstract
An observational study was conducted to characterize high-touch surfaces in emergency departments and hemodialysis facilities. Certain surfaces were touched with much greater frequency than others. A small number of surfaces accounted for the majority of touch episodes. Prioritizing disinfection of these surfaces may reduce pathogen transmission within healthcare environments.
Topics & Concepts
Observational studyHemodialysisMedical emergencyEmergency roomsMedicineTransmission (telecommunications)Emergency medicineComputer scienceSurgeryTelecommunicationsInternal medicineInfection Control in HealthcareInfection Control and VentilationMedical Device Sterilization and Disinfection