Carling says current studies that tout the efficacy of whole-room dis-
infection systems are quasi-experimental in that they're based on the
experience of single facilities that employed the technology, but did
not control for confounding factors.
"They likely have some efficacy in decreasing surface bioburden
in areas that are not well cleaned," he says, "but there is no scientif-
ic reason to believe they add anything to areas that are addressed
with reasonable disinfectants. If a surface hasn't been touched by a
disinfectant, the technology won't work very well."
• What about wipes? Newer hydrogen-peroxide-based liquid sur-
face disinfectants and a peracetic-acid-hydrogen-peroxide combina-
tion product are effective disinfectants, but what's the best way to
apply them?
Most single-use, pre-moistened wipes are packaged with the proper
ratio of soaked-in disinfectant, according to a study in the American
Journal of Infection Control (osmag.net/5tEYXu). The key, says the
study, is to make sure they remain that way by closing containers
between uses, storing the containers according to manufacturers'
directives and to not use wipes past their shelf life.
Ms. Pressimone says her staff has had issues with pre-moistened
wipes drying before they've had the chance to apply the proper
amount to surface areas. They now have the option to use pre-moist-
ened wipes or a lint-free or microfiber cloth moistened with a deter-
gent/disinfectant and water.
"Alcohol is the critical aspect of wipe chemistry," adds Dr. Carling.
"Oftentimes the alcohol is rendered ineffective if the containers are
left open and the wipes dry out."
Remember this rule, he says, when wiping down surfaces: one wipe,
one direction, one time.
OSM
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