Effect of pulsed-xenon ultraviolet light on environmental contamination and risk of health care worker hand contamination

Am J Infect Control. 2021 Jul;49(7):957-959. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2020.12.005. Epub 2020 Dec 24.

Abstract

In this study, we conducted a prospective survey of a convenience sample of high touch objects using adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence surface sample readings, aerobic cultures, and gloved hand methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus imprint cultures to assess inpatient room cleanliness. We demonstrated that thoroughness of cleaning is improved with housekeeping education and feedback and that the addition of automated decontamination with pulsed UV irradiation provides further benefit in decontamination and subsequent risk for health care worker hand contamination.

Keywords: Adenosine triphosphate; Environmental cleaning; Hand transmission; UV irradiation.

MeSH terms

  • Cross Infection* / prevention & control
  • Disinfection
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Ultraviolet Rays
  • Xenon

Substances

  • Xenon