Control Of Microbes: Physical, Chemical, And Antibiotic Methods’
Some potentially pathogenic bacteria and fungi, including strains of Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, Candida, and Aspergillus, can survive for one to three months on a variety of materials found in hospitals, including scrub suits, lab coats, plastic aprons, and computer keyboards. What can hospital personnel do to reduce the spread of these pathogens?
Sample Answer
Hospital personnel can implement several strategies to reduce the spread of potentially pathogenic bacteria and fungi:
Hand Hygiene:
- This remains the single most important step. Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub is crucial before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Appropriate use: Wear appropriate PPE like gloves, gowns, and masks based on the risk associated with each patient interaction. Don and doff PPE according to proper protocols to avoid contamination.
- Gown and Lab Coat Management: Chan