Evaluating the effectiveness of ultraviolet-C lamps for reducing keyboard contamination in the intensive care unit: A longitudinal analysis

摘要: Background Ultraviolet (UV) spectrum light for decontamination of patient care areas is an effective way to reduce transmission infectious pathogens. Our purpose was investigate the efficacy automated UV-C device eliminate bioburden on hospital computer keyboards. Methods The study took place at academic in Chicago, Illinois. Baseline cultures were obtained from keyboards intensive units. Automated lamps installed over and mice those computers. tested varying cycle lengths determine shortest cycles. Delay after use prior initiation varied minimize interruptions. Finally, 218 postinstallation samples analyzed. Results Of 203 baseline samples, 193 (95.1%) positive bacteria, with a median 120 colony forming units (CFU) per keyboard. There numerous bacteria linked health care–associated infections (HAIs), including Staphylococcus , Streptococcus Enterococcus Pseudomonas Pasteurella Klebsiella Acinetobacter Enterobacter . keyboards, 25 (12.3%) had gram-negative species. 205 (94%) sterile. 13 that showed bacterial growth, 6 produced single CFU. Comparison pre- post-UV CFU values (120 0, respectively) revealed >99% reduction bacteria. Conclusions UV lamp effectively decontaminates minimal interruption low exposure. Further studies are required HAI these devices.