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Objective To explore the effects of endoscopic reprocessing on disinfection and its influential factors under the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods A total of 450 endoscopes cleaned and disinfected according to Technical Specifications for Cleaning and Disinfection of Endoscopes from November 2019 to January 2020, and 450 endoscopes cleaned and disinfected according to The recommended procedure for cleaning and disinfection of gastrointestinal endoscopes during COVID-19 epidemic by Chinese Society of Digestive Endoscopology from February to April 2020 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University were enrolled in the control group and observation group respectively by random number method. Both the control group and the observation group contained 200 gastroscopes, 200 enteroscopes and 50 ultrasound endoscopes. ATP fluorescence detection method and pour plate technique were used to evaluate the disinfection effect of endoscopes. Single factor analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors for unqualified sterilization after endoscopic reprocessing. Results The disinfection pass rates of gastroscopes, enteroscopes and ultrasound endoscopes in the observation group were not significantly different compared with those of the control group (P>0. 05). The sterilization pass rates and ATP test pass rates of gastroscopes, enteroscopes and ultrasound endoscopes in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (all P<0. 05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that non-strict implementation of endoscopic reprocessing (OR = 7. 96, 95%CI: 4. 55-22. 84, P<0. 001), non-standard operation (OR = 2. 26, 95%CI: 1. 24-5. 63, P<0. 001), insufficient concentration of disinfectant (OR = 5. 43, 95% CI: 2. 52-9. 02, P < 0. 001), insufficient concentration ratio of multi-enzyme solution (OR = 4. 38, 95% CI: 1. 95-8. 61, P < 0. 001), non-timely cleaning (OR= 2. 86, 95%CI: 1. 33-6. 42, P<0. 001), incomplete cleaning (OR = 3. 75, 95%CI: 1. 61-7. 49, P<0. 001) and improper endoscopic preservation (OR= 2. 12, 95%CI: 1. 36-4. 12, P<0. 001) were independent risk factors for unqualified sterilization after endoscopic reprocessing. Conclusion In COVID-19 pandemic, endoscope reprocessing can significantly improve the disinfection effect of endoscopes, worthy of further clinical promotion. The failure to strictly implement the reprocessing procedure is an important factor that may lead to unqualified sterilization.Copyright © 2021 The authors.
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The oral cavity houses a large number of microorganisms that are potential pathogens, such as cytome-galovirus, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus, herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, human immuno-deficiency virus, mycobacterium tuberculosis and currently with the appearance of the SARS COV-2 that causes covid-19, the dental community must take stricter measures in its protection protocols against diseases. To evaluate its germicidal efficacy, ultraviolet light was applied with different exposure times on the alginate dental impressions, immediately after having taken the impression, which when it came into contact with the oral cavity of the patient is contaminated. As a result, a decrease in size and quantity of the bacterial colonies was observed in most of the samples in which the UV LED light was applied at 10 and 15 minutes of exposure. Some samples showed less bacterial growth even after 5 minutes of exposure. All this confirms its germicidal capacity thanks to its 245 nm ultraviolet spectrum that affects the DNA and RNA chain of microorganisms since it is the wavelength of maximum absorption of its molecule, eliminating its reproductive and survival capacity. The advantages it offers such as its small size, easy to handle and install, that it does not require constant maintenance, low acquisition cost;its constant high intensity light that does not generate any increase in temperature, makes it an excellent disinfectant auxiliary that can be incorporated into dental clinics.Copyright © 2023, Ediciones Avances S.L.. All rights reserved.
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Background: The use of antimicrobials has been expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to assess the knowledge and practices of disinfectants and sanitizers use among Jordanian people during the (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: A web-based cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire was distributed across Jordan between August and September 2020. The questionnaire consisted of three sections inquiring about demographics and general characteristics of the surveyed sample, evaluating the respondents' knowledge about disinfectants, as well as respondents' practices. The questionnaire was completed by 403 literate adult respondents. Results: Our results indicate that Jordanian adults have used disinfectants increasingly during the COVID-19 outbreak. Knowledge of our study sample was considerably affected by gender (p=0.044), income (p=0.001), and profession (p<0.001). 80.8% of those participants reported skin-related side effects due to disinfectant use during the pandemic. The most used disinfectants were ethanol, followed by soap and water. Generally, study respondents showed positive practices toward the use of disinfectants during the time of the pandemic with few high-risk practices reported. Interestingly, the positive practices applied by Jordanian adults were minimally and not significantly affected by the knowledge about antimicrobials' safe and effective use. Conclusions: There is an urgent need for a structured effort to increase public awareness regarding the safe and effective use of disinfectants against SARS-CoV-2 transmission. © 2023 DSR Publishers/The University of Jordan.
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Purpose:Home noninvasive ventilation (NIV) equipment is often observed to be dirty, potentially increasing patients' risk of respiratory infection. This study aimed to describe the cleaning practices of home NIV patients. Method(s):This single-site, cross-sectional, observational study surveyed 100 patients from the respiratory failure clinic regarding cleaning instructions, cleaning habits, barriers, and motivators to cleaning. Open-ended responses were analyzed with basic content analysis and closed categorical responses with frequencies and percentages. Result(s):Of 100 participants, 77% responded. Cleaning instructions most commonly recalled included cleaning with soapy water for masks (26/47, 55%), head straps (19/47, 40%), and tubing (21/47, 45%);vinegar solution for humidifiers (9/39, 23%);and replacing filters (14/39, 36%). Fourteen respondents reported barriers to cleaning, including forgetfulness (7/14, 50%) and physical difficulties (6/14, 43%). Commonly reported cleaning practices included soapy water to soak masks (28/77, 36%) and tubing (35/77, 46%), weekly masks (34/77, 44%) and tubing cleaning (29/77, 38%), vinegar solution to clean humidifiers for the 36 humidifier users (15/36, 44%), monthly humidifier cleaning (13/36, 36%), and monthly filter cleaning/replacement (36/77, 47%). Conclusion(s):Few respondents could recall specific instructions about when and how to clean their equipment. Many reported routine cleaning, with varied methods and frequencies. Our results will inform future NIV equipment cleaning educational package design.Copyright © Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Section, APTA.
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Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has now morphed into the most serious healthcare challenge that the world has faced in a century. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was declared as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) on January 30, 2020, and a pandemic on March 11 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The number of cases and the death toll are rapidly increasing frequently because of its fast transmission from human to human through droplets, contaminated hands or body, and inanimate surfaces. Objective(s): SDS has been found to exhibit broad-spectrum and effective microbicidal and viral inactivation agents through the denaturation of both envelope and non-envelop proteins Methods: Viable SARS-COV-2 particles may also be found on contaminated sites such as steel surfaces, plastic surfaces, stainless steel, cardboard, and glass surfaces that can serve as a source of virus transmission. We reviewed the available literature about the SARS-CoV-2 persistence on inanimate surfaces as well as the decontamination strategies of corona and other viruses by using Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as well as other cleaning chemicals and disinfectants. Result(s): The efficacy of SDS has been amply demonstrated in several studies involving human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV). SDS has also been found as deactivator of SARS-CoV-2. In toxic profile, up to 1% concentration of SDS is safe for humans and showed no toxic effect if ingested. Conclusion(s): Since no specific treatment is available as yet so containment and prevention continue to be important strategies against COVID-19. In this context, SDS can be an effective chemical disinfectant to slow and stop the further transmissions and spread of COVID-19.Copyright © 2021 Bentham Science Publishers.
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Severe acute respiratory corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly recognized pathogen and may cause severe respiratory illness among virus-infected people. The virus in the open market of Wuhan city, China was identified. The virus causative agent for the COVID-19 disease and became pandemic in December 2019 to now with no proper disease management protocols. So, the authors felt a need to bring awareness to the disease and its causative agent among worldwide.The current review article is trying to bringglance information on SARS-CoV-2 on various aspects of disease condition as Common characteristics, history, and mode of transmissions of the virus. The virus can be detected through investigations, Identified clinical manifestations for the virus, and available management used to treat the virus-infected patient. Here discussed possible preventive measures for SARS-CoV-2;to control the spread of the disease among the communities. This article information maybea help people to have an awareness of the disease.Health professional are trying hard for providing effective care to the virus affected people with minimal disease preventive protocols. People should understand the effectiveness of the vaccine and undergoing vaccination process which helps the spread of virus among the healthy people. Every individual should take initiation for the control of the disease spreads by following controlling measures.Copyright © RJPT All right reserved.
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The increased incidence of hand dermatitis (HD) is well documented in healthcare professionals (HCPs) (Flyvholm MA, Bach B, Rose M, Jepsen KF. Self-reported hand eczema in a hospital population. Contact Dermatitis 2007;57: 110-15). It is reported that HD accounts for 95% of all occupational dermatitis (Bains SN, Nash P, Fonacier L. Irritant contact dermatitis. Clinic Rev Allergy Immunol 2019;56: 99-109). We sought to better understand the prevalence of HD in HCPs in a large teaching hospital, identify any associated risk factors and assess their knowledge of hand care. Additionally, we aimed to assess the availability of ward facilities and posters for hand hygiene and hand care. The survey was conducted between November 2015 and January 2016. A review of ward facilities and posters for hand care and hand hygiene was conducted in October 2020. A total of 820 HCPs responded to the survey. Altogether, 444 respondents (54 1%) reported a previous history of HD and 226 (27 6%) reported active dermatitis. These included 153 (18 6%) doctors/ dentists, 76 (9 3%) allied health professionals (AHPs), 46 (5 6%) nurses/midwives, 27 (3 3%) administrative staff, 16 (1 9%) other, five (0 6%) technicians and 108 (13 2%) medical/ dental/nursing/midwifery/AHP students. Only 10 (1 2%) took time off work owing to their HD, with five (0 6%) requiring > 5 days off work, but 67 (8 2%) wished they had taken time off work. In total, 416 (50 7%) respondents washed their hands > 20 times daily and 229 (27 9%) used disinfectants > 20 times per day. Those with a prior history of atopic dermatitis (AD) were at higher risk of developing HD [relative risk (RR) 1 69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1 52-1 89;P < 0 001], and within 6 months of starting their job/placement (RR 1 82, 95% CI 1 3-2 5;P < 0 002). Only 107 (13 0%) respondents were able to identify all 11 correct statements regarding hand care. Two hundred and twenty (49 5%) of the 444 HCPs with a history of HD never received hand care advice when they started their current role. The 24 adult wards surveyed had a total of 162 general-use sinks, all with hand soap and disinfectant, and 154 hand hygiene posters. In contrast, only 22 sinks had emollients available. No posters were seen regarding hand care and skin health. This survey highlights the high prevalence of HD among HCPs, especially those with AD, but many are still not aware of good hand care measures. Additionally, our survey reflects the need for early education and equal facilities for hand care and hand hygiene, as both are important when delivering good clinical care, to protect patients and staff, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Background: The new public health emergency of COVID-19 caused by a novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which originated in Wuhan, Hubei province, China in December 2019, evolved into a pandemic in no time and is still in progression. The novel virus mainly targets the lower respiratory system, leading to viral pneumonia, with other associated complications of multi organ failure. Discussion(s): The bats, in particular Rhinolophus affinis, is a natural host of SARS-CoV-2 and the virus is considered to have spread to humans through yet controversial intermediate host pangolins. The incubation period ranges from 2-14 days and mode of person-to-person transmission is primari-ly via the direct contact with the infected person or through the droplets generated by the infected person during coughing or sneezing. The initiation of the infection process by SARS-CoV-2 virus is the invasion of lung type II alveolar cells via a receptor protein called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) present on the cell membrane with glycosylated spike (S) viral protein that medi-ates host cell invasion. The main diagnostic tools employed are molecular methods based on nucleic acid detection engaging real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and a new immunoassays based on antibodies IgM/IgG. Conclusion(s): Due to the lack of specific clinically approved anticovid-19 drugs or vaccines that could be used for its prevention or treatment, the current management approach is essentially sup-portive and symptomatic. The precautionary measures like, social distancing, cleaning hands with soap or sanitizers, using disinfectant solutions to decontaminate the surfaces of things and proper ventilation, wearing masks and other protective gears to curb transmission. The knowledge regard-ing COVID-19 therapies is still evolving and collaborative efforts are being put in to discover definitive therapies on different themes in the form of vaccines, repurposing drugs, RNA interfer-ence, docking studies, etc.Copyright © 2021 Bentham Science Publishers.
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Covid 19 is a pandemic disease spread almost in the whole world. To date, no medical advancement to curb the virus. Coronavirus is an enveloped virus transmitted from the biological and non-biological surface by direct or indirect contact. Limited literature revealed that the enveloped virus can be killed by disinfectants. There are many biocidal agents used for decontamination of the virus, yet they have many issues like toxicity, killing time, activation requirement, etc. Some are specific to the inanimate surface but not used by a human being. This current situation showed an urgent need for a biocidal agent which can act on biological as well as non-biological surfaces without any potential toxicity. Moreover, it should be easy to handle, inexpensive, and safe for the environment. Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid that acts as a powerful disinfectant and shows biocidal efficacy against a wide range of microorganisms. Hypochlorous acid is simple to use, inexpensive, eco-friendly, non-toxic, and stable. The properties of HOCl can be regulated at the site of preparation and therefore, its compliance is high. Hypochlorous acid seems to be a promising agent in disinfection and sterilization in healthcare facilities. Due to its diverse biocidal actions, it may be used as a potent disinfectant against novel coronavirus.Copyright © 2022 Bentham Science Publishers.
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BACKGROUND: As all the dental staff, including nurses and practitioners, are exposed to various routes of contamination due to the novel COVID-19 virus, which is still unknown to the scientific world, developing strategies to reduce the risk of transmission and decontaminate surfaces in a dental office would be of high importance. Although there is still insufficient data on managing this virus in dental offices, several studies have suggested protocols for improving care. AIM: This study aimed to review present investigations and reach a conclusion on what we know and need to know to combat this virus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this review, Scopus, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases were searched using the keywords "COVID-19,” "SARS-CoV-2,” "Medical Disinfectants,” "Personal Protective Equipment's,” and "Surface Decontamination.” Articles were reviewed, and finally, relevant articles published during 2000–2022 were included in the final paper. RESULTS: The present research concluded that using a combination of the face shield and N95 masks protected the eyes, nose, and mouth. To have more efficient protection, water-resistant long-sleeved gowns and gloves were highly suggested. To overcome aerosols, high-performance air filters and ultraviolet were found quite effective. Allowing the patient to use antiseptic mouthwash before starting the treatment could reduce oral microorganisms and the following airborne contamination. CONCLUSION: This review has gathered all available data regarding dentistry and COVID-19 in order to conclude what has been achieved yet in the prevention of this virus through dental offices;however, more investigations are needed to have a definitive protocol against the virus.
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Background: A.P.P.A. Project is the main activity of the nonprofit organisation Aid Progress Pharmacist Agreement (A.P.P.A.) which is the result of the cooperation between the University of Turin and Italian Pharmacists and it operates in the field of International Health Cooperation. The objective of the Project is the realisation of Galenic laboratories within healthcare facilities located in Developing Countries. Seven Projects are currently on-going in Madagascar, Angola, Chad and Haiti. Purpose(s): In view of the pandemic caused by COVID19, and to reduce its spread as much as possible in the hospitals where the Project is active, the goal was to implement specific procedures on site for the production of alcoholic solutions, liquid soaps and disinfectant gels in accordance with WHO guidelines. Method(s): The A.P.P.A. labs have been promptly equipped with standard procedures for the preparation of disinfectant formulations. The procedures have been developed in a very simple way to allow their introduction on site even remotely and without a specific training path that requires to be carried out in person. Result(s): Since the manual skills have been acquired during the preparation of Galenic formulations over time, local operators had no difficulty with the new formulations;if necessary specific indications are given by email or by phone calls. In the labs where these formulations had already been introduced in the past for the prevention of nosocomial infections, the setting up has been enhanced by the reorganisation of the production activities. Conclusion(s): The Galenic preparation, also in these contexts, resulted a good strategy for healthcare personnel and for hospitalised patients.
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Background: On March 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Swiss Federal Council mobilised conscript formations of the Swiss Armed Forces. This was the largest military mobilisation since the Second World War. Purpose(s): To assess the roles of the militia pharmacy officers deployed throughout the country to assist the healthcare system. Method(s): All missions performed by militia pharmacy officers were systematically collected and evaluated. They were also compared to the official duties of pharmacists in the Swiss Armed Forces. Result(s): Ten pharmacy officers were enlisted in two out of four hospital battalions deployed, as well as in the medical logistic battalion and in the staff of the logistic brigade that embedded them. Their missions were mainly planning, conduct and control of medical logistics, as well as hygiene and drug manufacturing activities. In the hospital battalions, they especially managed: 1) supply of medical material dedicated to mission-related training, civilian health facilities assistance and medical transportation;2) establishment and application of hygiene procedures;3) provision of conscripts' own medication. In the medical logistic battalion, the support of both military and civilian pharmaceutical production facilities was the most important activity (e.g. disinfectants and anaesthetics manufacturing). Conclusion(s): Thanks to their civilian and military background, militia pharmacy officers have been quickly and effectively deployed throughout the country. The role of pharmacists within their respective battalions has emerged as especially crucial in the pandemic context and some of the performed missions were beyond their traditional duties. Their basic training has to be further developed accordingly.
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Background. Hard and soft surfaces (fomites) can play a role in the transmission of both enteric and respiratory viruses. Transmission can occur by touching of contaminated surfaces and bringing the hand to the either the mouth or nose or by reaerosolization of the virus from the surface. In adults face touching occurs every 3 to 4 minutes. The amount of virus transfer which occurs depends on the nature of the surface, the virus and the degree and type of activity within a facility. Methods. We conducted studies on the finger transfers of both a non-enveloped (MS-2 coliphages) and an enveloped virus (coronavirus 229E). Results. The greatest degree of the non-enveloped virus occurred with acrylic plastic and stainless steel, while the greatest transfer of the enveloped virus occurred from porcelain. Transfer to the finger from surfaces of the coronavirus was reduced by treatment of surfaces with various commercially available quaternary ammonium disinfectants after 24 hours of application to the fomites by 37% to 99.9%. Using MS-2 coliphage as a tracer virus placed on a high touch fomite, we found that the use of quaternary ammonium containing disinfecting wipes in a long term care facility reduced the contamination of fomites by 80%. Conclusion. The results indicate that spread of viruses in a facility and exposure via hand contact can be significantly reduced by disinfection of fomites.
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Introduction. Poisoning has been reported as the fifth most common cause of injury-related deaths in children <5 years worldwide. Little is known about accidental poisoning among children in the regional setting. During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdown measures may have increased home-based unintentional poisoning. Objectives. To determine the frequency, outcome and type of accidental poisoning in children admitted to a regional hospital and compare cases before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. A review of admissions to Queen Nandi Regional Hospital in Empangeni was performed to document cases of accidental poisoning >2 years. Equal periods during 2019 and 2020 (April to December) were compared. Children <13 years were included. Age, sex, date of admission, death, survival and type of poisoning were collected. Results. Accidental poisoning made up a small proportion of the total admissions (n=252/5 071;4.97%) with a low case fatality rate (0.40%). Boys made up the majority (n=132/252, 52.38%). Most were <5 years (n=220/252, 87.30%,). Medicines (n=114/252, 45.24%), hydrocarbons (n=61/252, 24.21%) and pesticides (n=26/252, 10.32%) were the main types of poisoning. Domestic cleaner, sanitiser or disinfectant-related admissions were significantly increased during the pandemic (p=0.020). Conclusion. Accidental poisoning commonly occurs in younger children. Medicines, hydrocarbons and pesticides make up the majority of cases. Domestic cleaner, hand sanitiser and disinfectant ingestion increased during the COVID pandemic. Future research involving primary care facilities and risk factors related to poisoning should be investigated.
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Aims Hand sanitizers are increasingly used in most households since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, improper use and accidental and deliberate ingestion of sanitizer solutions have been associated with numerous health risks to children. This study aimed to assess knowledge and practices regarding safe handling and disposal of alcohol-based hand sanitizers and surface disinfectants among a cohort of parents in urban Sri Lanka. Methods This observational cross-sectional study was performed including parents of children admitted to North Colombo Teaching Hospital for a period of six months from August 2021. Data were collected regarding parental knowledge regarding safe handling and disposal of hand sanitizers, and their health hazards by paediatric post-graduate trainees. Data were collected using a pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire. All data were analysed using SPSS 17.0. Results Out of 153 children recruited to the study, the mean age was 5.3 years (range: 1 month - 14 years) and male children (92, 60.1%) outnumbered female children (61, 39.9%). The majority of mothers (126, 82.4%) and fathers (133, 86.9%) had received education at least up to secondary school. 124 parents (81%) had been using hand sanitizers at home regularly. Only 113(73.9%) parents believed that preschool children were the most vulnerable for accidental ingestion of sanitizers and 40 parents (26.1%) were unaware that sanitizer solutions can be accidentally inhaled by toddlers. Knowledge was poor regarding occurrence of potential symptoms and side effects such as sore throat (56, 36.6%), irritation of eyes (30, 19.6%), breathing difficulties (40, 26.1%), high heart rate (72, 47%), aspiration (43, 28.1%) and low blood sugar (108, 70.5%). Only 132 parents (86.2%) knew how to clean and disinfect their home premises safely and 29 parents (18.9%) didn't know how to store cleaning products safely. Sixty-four parents (41.8%) were unaware regarding how to get information on safe cleaning practices. Forty-two parents (27.4%) kept sanitizer bottles within easy access to children whilst 85 parents (55.5%) had been storing sanitizers in unlabeled bottles. Ninety-eight parents (64%) were not keen to read the signage alerts in sanitizer storage bottles. Only 25 parents (16.3%) safely disposed sanitizer bottles. Thirty-three parents (21.6%) put sanitizer bottles together with food items in carriage bags from super markets. Conclusion The findings of this study inform that knowledge in parents regarding safe use of sanitizers can further be improved specially, in areas of local and systemic effects of sanitizer poisoning and information resources of safe cleaning practices. As a number of parents use and dispose hand sanitizers unsafely, the effectiveness of awareness programs to improve safety practices among parents should be evaluated.
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Purpose/Objectives: Gram-negative bacteria including E. coli and P. aeruginosa can survive for months on dry hard surfaces, and SARS viruses can persist for days. These contaminated surfaces along with patients' damaged skin barriers, due to wounds or central line insertion sites, increase the risk healthcare-acquired infections (HAI) and subsequent serious complications. Furthermore, with increased frequency and duration of hospitalizations due to the current pandemic, the number of HAIs is on the rise. Currently there are no antimicrobial surfaces that provide both instant and long-lasting antimicrobial protection against a broad spectrum of infectious microbes. Liquid- or radiation-based disinfection techniques are kill microbes quickly, but their effect does not last long before needing reapplication. Antimicrobial surfaces based on heavy metals remain antimicrobial for long durations, but complete disinfection can take hours. In this work, we developed a new class of plant-inspired antimicrobial surfaces and wound dressings that incorporate plant secondary metabolites capable of rapid disinfection (> 4-log reduction) of common bacteria and viruses and maintain their efficacy over time (> 6 months). Methodology: We developed a method for stabilizing naturally antimicrobial essential oils components from plants such as, alpha terpineol (AT) and cinnamaldehyde (CMA), within a polyurethane polymer. Using a modified standard method for evaluating the performance of different nonporous solids (ISO 22196) and median tissue culture infection dose assay, these antimicrobial polyurethane coatings were tested and found to be effective in killing E. coli, P. aeruginosa, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and SARS-CoV-2. The durability of the coatings was tested by linear abrasion, UV and airflow exposure. Application methods such as spray coating and dip coating allow the coating to be applied to a variety of surfaces. Results: Polyurethane surfaces containing 35% AT content (PU-35%AT) showed a ∼5.8-log reduction in E. coli colony forming units per cm2 (CFU/cm2) in under 2 minutes, a shorter time than common commercial disinfectants. Additionally, when subjected to 8 consecutive rounds of inoculation the PU- 35%AT surface reduced the E. coli by >99.99% for all 8 rounds. We achieved a ∼5.8-log reduction of MRSA within 5 minutes on PU-60%AT. The PU-35%AT surfaces showed a 4.0-log reduction in SARS-CoV- 2 in 60 minutes. A PU-70%AT showed a 1.6-log reduction after 10 minutes and maintained virucidal capabilities after 2 weeks. PU+35%AT surfaces maintained a ∼5.3-log reduction in CFU/cm2 in MRSA and E. coli after 1000 abrasion cycles, 12 hours of UV exposure, 25 hours of exposure to -17°C, or 5 months of air flow. Lastly, to demonstrate the coating's real world functionality the PU+35%AT coating was successfully applied to a computer keyboard, cell phone screen protector and medical gauze. Conclusion/Significance: This work demonstrates a novel approach for fabricating a broad-spectrum antibacterial and antiviral polymer surface based on plant essential oil components. This antimicrobial polyurethane coating has not only rapid bactericidal and virucidal capabilities but maintains this efficacy over time. Additionally, the coating can be applied to a variety of surfaces including medical gauze to create wound dressings that significantly reduce bacterial burden and decrease chances of HAIs.
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Background & Objective: Every operating room has been associated with a variety of occupational hazards, but not many studies have been conducted to assess and address these hazards. We used a qualitative approach to explore operating room personnel's experiences of workplace hazards and how these hazards threaten their occupational safety and health (OSH). Methodology: This qualitative study was conducted in five teaching hospitals in the south-west of Iran from February 2019 to March 2021. The sample was 24 operating room personnel who were selected under convenient sampling technique. Data were collected using semi-structured, individual interviews, document review and non-participant observation. The collected data were analyzed according to the qualitative content analysis method using MAXQDA v. 2020. Results: After prolonged analysis of the data, the researchers extracted 644 codes, 13 subcategories, 4 categories, and 1 main theme. The main theme of the study was working in a context of occupational hazards. Conclusions: Operating rooms are full of potential dangers, which, when combined with the personnel's negligence and management inefficiencies, increase the risk of occupational health and safety. Therefore, making working conditions safe by providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), in-service training, and identifying and managing the causes of personnel negligence are recommended. Moreover, strategies should be introduced to manage stress and conflicts among the healthcare personnel, thus controlling psychological hazards.
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In this pandemic times, faced with a variant of coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (sars cov2), we face a conjuncture of dilemmas and hypotheses about the causes of transmission of the microorganism when approved guideline for cleaning and disinfection in the hospital environment are not enough to consider a suitable surface, was in part to the lack of quantitative evidence that allow us to support or detract the effect of a disinfectant due to its misuse or wrong application. objective. to determine the effectiveness of four disinfectants applied with local cleaning and disinfection standards in the hospital environment. material and methods. observational study carried out in four hospitalization areas of two different health care centers. Cleaning and/or disinfection is carried out with three methods: spraying, friction and electromagnetic. Luminescence-based atp was used to quantify living cells results. friction on surfaces with hydrogen peroxide impregnated towels had a decrease up to 88% in relative light units (rlu) compared to spraying with other disinfectants. In rooms with previous cleaning, with spraying, the rlu had a 50% reduction, however, in sink faucets and dispensers, the simple use of nebulization was enough to reduce rlus more than 90%. Anesthesia equipment in three rooms, had the highest amount of organic material (bacteria, viruses, etc.) and the spraying reduced the rlus more than 95%.
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Background: Nowadays, the COVID-19 pandemic has become a global problem that new methods must be used to prevent it. The virus is highly contagious and is mainly transmitted through the air. Ozone is a powerful oxidant that can be used to inactivate a wide range of viruses that may be resistant to other disinfectants. The purpose of this study was to review the use and effect of ozone in inactivating indoor viruses. Methods: To conduct this review study, the keywords such as ozone, virus and air were used to search the PubMed and Scopus databases. Articles were searched from 2010 to 2020. As a result of the search, 57 articles in this field were selected and their content and results were used in this review study. Results: This review study showed that ozone has been successfully used to prevent several viral diseases such as COVED-19. In addition, some viruses, such as coronaviruses, contain sulfhydryl functional groups containing cysteine and tryptophan that react better with ozone gas. The infected person's sneezing may result in the formation of 40,000 droplets in the air. The droplets can be transferred to the nearest surface up to approximately 2 meters before falling and also may remain in the air for 30 hours. Conclusion: The use of ozone gas has many potential applications in inactivating viruses in enclosed spaces. Given the importance of virus-containing aerosols in the transmission of COVED-19, ozone can be a promising way to prevent the disease. The degree of inactivation of viruses by ozone gas depends on the gas concentration, contact time, temperature, humidity and type of virus. In general, studies in this field have shown the use of ozone gas in preventing the spread of viral diseases such as COVED-19. Necessary safety measures and precautions are also recommended in using this gas.