Reviewed by Barry Rittman
In a recent article from the American Journal of Infection Control, investigators evaluated the effect of advanced photohydrolysis technology on environmental surfaces in two acute care ICUs. Investigators installed AP technology inside existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Every 4 weeks over 4 consecutive months, samples from surfaces and floors were taken to evaluate for colony-forming units (CFUs) of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), fungi, and air samples were taken to evaluate for aerobic bacteria and fungi. The researchers noted over 98% reduction of mean fungi and MRSA CFUs on surfaces, and over 96% reduction on floors. In addition, the study found that aerobic bacterial air and fungal culture growth decreased by 72% and 89% at each site, respectively. Post-activation data found a decline in HAIs by 70%. This study provides a novel approach to environmental decontamination without increasing the burden on EVS staffing or training.
References:
Trosch K, Lawrence P, Carenza A, Baumgarten K, Lambert BA, Leger N, Berthelot L, Woosley M, Birx D. The effects of a novel, continuous disinfectant technology on methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), fungi and aerobic bacteria in two separate Intensive Care Units in two different states: an experimental design with observed impact on Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs). Am J Infect Control. 2024 Apr 11:S0196-6553(24)00155-X. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.03.013. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38614410.