RESUMO
The sporicidal activity of hospital disinfectants was tested using two methods of test and two species of spores. Alcoholic hypochlorite and glutaraldehyde (Cidex) showed some sporicidal activity; the first was the more effective. Iodophors, formalin, and phenolics were less effective, in descending order. Chlorhexidine showed no activity.A freshly prepared solution containing 50% methanol and sufficient sodium hypochlorite to provide 2000 parts per million available chlorine in distilled water, with a contact time of 15 minutes, is suggested for the decontamination of clean, heat-sensitive instruments except those of plated metal. It must be understood that no such method can be depended upon to sterilize.The instruments should be rinsed in sterile water before use after decontamination.
Assuntos
Aldeídos/farmacologia , Infecção Hospitalar/prevenção & controle , Formaldeído/farmacologia , Hidrocarbonetos Iodados/farmacologia , Fenóis/farmacologia , Esporos Bacterianos/efeitos dos fármacos , Bacillus subtilis , Sobrevivência Celular , Corrosão , Desinfetantes/farmacologia , Equipamentos e Provisões , Glutaral/farmacologia , Humanos , EsterilizaçãoRESUMO
This paper describes a search for Gram-negative bacteria in an operating theatre and the steps taken to reduce the level of environmental contamination.A high rate of infection in clean wounds prompted a bacteriological survey. Potential sources of infection found, and the measures employed are described in the hope that others may be encouraged to examine familiar equipment critically and to improve hygiene even in old premises.The choice, design, use and care of cleaning and sterilizing equipment were open to criticism. In particular, a currently popular floor-scrubbing machine provided a breeding ground for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and was distributing it in the theatre environment.
