Objective To investigate the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide spray, peracetic acid spray, and ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamp irradiation in removing nucleic acids from MS2 bacteriophage-contaminated aerosols. Methods Bacteriophage aerosols (1010 PFU/mL) were sprayed at 100 mL into each of five 60 m3 laboratory chambers. Disinfection was performed by spraying with 30 g/L hydrogen peroxide, 5 g/L peracetic acid, or by irradiation using 60, 90, and 120 W UV germicidal lamps. The copy number of the MS2 bacteriophage lysis protein gene was quantified via quantitative RT-PCR to compare the nucleic acid clearance efficacy of the different disinfection methods. Results The average copy numbers of the MS2 gene in the 30 g/L hydrogen peroxide group and the 5 g/L peracetic acid group were lower than that in the positive control group, measuring 1.49×109, 9.85×107 and 8.14×1011, respectively (F=217.396, P < 0.05). The 120 W UV lamp demonstrated the best nucleic acid clearance efficacy, with an average copy number of 7.26×108, which was significantly lower than the control group's 8.14×1011 (F=217.396, P < 0.05). The 120 W UV lamp achieved a nucleic acid clearance rate of 99.91%, higher than that of the 60 W and 90 W lamps, although residual nucleic acids were still detected. Conclusion Hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, and UV germicidal lamps exhibit a certain degree of efficacy in removing nucleic acids from highly concentrated aerosol contamination, but cannot achieve complete clearance.
Objective To evaluate and investigate the applicability of filtration efficiency indicators in medical mask standards, so as to provide a reference for the revision of these standards. Methods Data on particulate filtration efficiency (PFE) and bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE) from 153 batches of medical surgical masks collected from an institution between 2020 and 2023 were analyzed. A segmentation method was used to examine patterns of BFE and PFE values across different ranges, and Pearson correlation analysis was applied to study the relationship between the two indicators. Results A positive correlation was observed between BFE and PFE in medical surgical masks（R=0.806）. When PFE exceeded 80%, all masks demonstrated a BFE of≥95%. For masks with PFE between 30% and 79%, approximately 38% achieved a BFE of 95% or higher. In cases where PFE was below 30%, all BFE test results were less than 95%. Conclusion In emergency inspections and rapid screening, PFE testing can be used to evaluate the quality of medical masks. It is recommended that the Disposable Medical Mask standard include testing for bacterial filtration efficiency.
Objective To understand the comprehensive performance of the clean operating rooms in Xuzhou City Hospital and to provide a basis for the management and smooth operation of clean operating rooms. Methods According to GB 50333—2013 Technical Code for Construction of Hospital Clean Operating Departments, the comprehensive performance of clean operating rooms in hospitals at all levels in Xuzhou City was monitored from 2019 to 2023 using the flat exposure method and instrument method. Results A total of 487 operating rooms from 28 hospitals were monitored, with a total pass rate of 80.99%. The pass rates for dust particle count with a particle size≥ 0.5 μm and average bacterial concentration were high at 94.05% and 91.99%, respectively. The lowest pass rate for noise was 48.87%. The average bacterial concentration pass rate of Grade I operating rooms were higher than those of Grade Ⅱ and Ⅲ（98.90% vs 93.18% and 90.06%，χ2=7.770，P=0.021）. Conclusion The overall pass rate of clean operating rooms in Xuzhou City Hospital is general, and the pass rate of noise monitoring projects is low. Hospitals need to strengthen self-monitoring and standardize daily management.
Objective To evaluate the disinfection efficacy of hypochlorous acid and peracetic acid on environmental surfaces in cold chain settings. Methods Two cold storage warehouses at Ningbo Port were selected as the test sites. Disinfection was performed using a six-sided spray disinfection machine with either hypochlorous acid or peracetic acid. The surface disinfection efficacy of the two disinfectants under cold chain conditions was compared. Results At -18℃, the disinfection qualification rate increased with higher concentrations for both disinfectants (low-temperature peracetic acid: χ2rend=12.130, P<0.001; room-temperature hypochlorous acid: χ2trend=45.280, P<0.001). For 250 mg/L room-temperature hypochlorous acid, the qualification rates at 5 and 30 min were 85.83% and 94.34%, respectively (P=0.016). For 1 500 mg/L low-temperature peracetic acid, the qualification rates were both 100% at 5 and 30 minutes. At 30 min of exposure, the qualification rates were 100% for 1,500 mg/L low-temperature peracetic acid and 94.34% for 2 50 mg/L room-temperature hypochlorous acid(P=0.209). Conclusion A concentration of 1 500 mg/L low-temperature peracetic acid is suitable for disinfecting environmental surfaces in cold chain settings using the spray disinfection machine, with a required exposure time of 5 min. A concentration of 250 mg/L room-temperature hypochlorous acid still holds practical value for field application but requires a longer exposure time.
Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) for cleaning reusable medical instruments and assess its impact on instrument corrosion. Methods The contaminated instruments were cleaned using ROC, soft water, and pure water in a washing machine. Electrochemical methods were employed to investigate the corrosive effects of different water qualities on stainless steel instruments. The cleaning efficacy was assessed using visual inspection, ATP detection, and protein residue detection methods. Results The corrosion current density of concentrated water on instruments was higher than that of purified water and soft water, yet remained within the corrosion-resistant range. When soft water, purified water or concentrated water was used during the main washing stage, all instruments passed visual inspection, showed negative results for protein residue, and met the criteria in ATP bioluminescence rapid detection. Conclusions ROC exhibits low corrosiveness toward instruments and does not compromise cleaning efficacy. It can be used in the cleaning stage of reusable instruments.
Objective To understand the current status and characteristics of bloodborne occupational exposure among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital, and to provide references for improving occupational health protection measures for medical personnel. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of healthcare workers who experienced bloodborne occupational exposure from January 2015 to December 2024 in a tertiary hospital. Results Over the past decade, a total of 347 occupational exposure incidents occurred in the hospital. Nursing staff accounted for the highest proportion of exposed personnel (55.62%), followed by medical trainees (25.36%) and clinical physicians (15.56%). Percutaneous sharp injuries were the most common exposure route (89.34%), followed by contamination of wounds or mucous membranes (11.66%). The main exposure scenarios included clinical procedures (50.39%), instrument sorting (31.10%), and needle removal (18.50%). Hepatitis B virus was the most frequent exposure source (40.92%). The widely recommended first aid measure for sharp injury exposures was first by squeezing the wound to express blood, followed by rinsing and disinfection. Conclusion Nursing staff experience the highest proportion of occupational exposures, primarily involving sharp injuries during clinical procedures, with hepatitis B virus being the most common source. The correct first aid procedure is to squeeze the wound first, then to rinse and disinfect it.
Objective To conduct an analysis of the occupational exposure characteristics and risk factors among dental staff, thereby providing references and a theoretical basis for enhancing occupational exposure management. Methods The occupational exposure data of staff in a tertiary stomatological hospital from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2023 were retrospectively analyzed in terms of basic information, exposure time, exposure links, exposure sites, exposure sources, and follow-up reviews. Results From 2017 to 2023, a total of 69 cases of occupational exposure occurred,the majority of exposed dental staff were female, doctors and working years≤ 2 years. The exposed departments were mainly the maxillofacial surgery outpatient department (20.29%). January (18.84%) was the month with the highest occurrence of occupational exposure. The main cause of exposure was careless operation (86.96%). Most occur when handling instruments or cleaning instruments after diagnosis and treatment (62.32%). The main exposure mode was sharp instrument injury (94.20%), and the needle (44.93%) was the main instrument causing sharp instrument injury. The hand (89.85%) was the most exposed site. The unknown exposure source accounted for the highest proportion of 94.20%. The standard treatment rate after occupational exposure was 95.65%, the timely reporting rate was 88.41%, and the follow-up review rate was 26.09%. No individuals had been identified as being infected with blood-borne pathogens as a result of occupational exposure. Conclusion The risk factors of occupational exposure among dental staff include female, doctors, working years≤2 years, maxillofacial surgery outpatient department, sharp instrument injury, and handling or cleaning instruments after diagnosis and treatment, etc. Moreover, the awareness of follow-up and re-examination after exposure is relatively weak.
Objective To analyse the trend of healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prevalence rate in Kezhou region of Xinjiang from 2014 to 2023, and to provide evidence for further improving HAI management in this region. Methods All seven secondary and tertiary hospitals in Kezhou region (one tertiary hospital and six secondary hospitals) were included. A point prevalence survey was conducted once a year from 2014 to 2023 (except in 2020). Trends in HAI point prevalence and antimicrobial use were analyzed. Results From 2014 to 2023, a total of 16 964 inpatients were eligible for inclusion, with 16 731 actually surveyed (response rate 98.63%). The overall point prevalence rate of hospital-acquired infections was 0.89%. The most common infection sites were lower respiratory tract infections (30.20%) and surgical site infections (28.19%). The surgical site infection rate was 2.16%, with rates of 2.06% for Class I incisions, 1.89% for Class Ⅱ incisions, and 4.64% for ClassⅢ incisions. The overall antimicrobial use rate was 32.32% (range 24.51%-41.58%), and the pathogen submission rate for therapeutic antimicrobial use was 47.67%. Monotherapy accounted for 89.46% of antimicrobial use and showed an upward trend, while two-drug and three-drug combination therapy accounted for 10.31% and 0.22%, respectively, both showing downward trends. Conclusion The hospital-acquired infection rate in the Kezhou region of Xinjiang shows a declining trend. Surgical site infections, particularly those involving Class I incisions, should be prioritized in future prevention and control efforts.
Objective To investigate the management and utilization status of disinfectant wipes in medical institutions across China and to identify the main existing issues. Methods A convenient sampling method was used to select 318 medical institutions nationwide from June 1 to 30, 2021. An online survey was conducted via "Wenjuanxing" to collect data on the clinical use of disinfectant wipes. Analysis was performed on the categories of wipes used, the types of microorganisms targeted for killing, and the patterns of use across different regions, levels of medical institutions, and key departments. Results Valid questionnaires were received from 318 institutions. The proportion of institutions using disinfectant wipes was 66.04%, with tertiary hospitals having the highest utilization rate (79.57%). There was a significant difference in usage rates among institutions of different levels (P<0.05). The disinfectant wipes used were predominantly of low to intermediate disinfection levels and were mainly employed in key clinical departments. Regarding management practices, only 28.91% of institutions had established standard operating procedures (SOPs) for disinfectant wipe use, and only 48.57% conducted post-use efficacy evaluations. Conclusion The utilization rate of disinfectant wipes in medical institutions has increased significantly and is concentrated in high-infection-risk departments. However, current usage is dominated by low-level products, with insufficient application of intermediate- to high-level disinfectant wipes. Management shortcomings include low SOP formulation rates and inadequate monitoring of disinfection efficacy.
Objective To understand the hand hygiene implementation and its influencing factors of the staff and children in kindergartens in some areas of Anhui province, and to provide reference for improving infection prevention and control in kindergartens. Methods The convenience sampling method was used to select one city each from the northern and southern parts of Anhui Province. In each city, three counties/districts were chosen, and at least two to three kindergartens were selected from each county/district. A total of 22 kindergartens were selected, and on-site sampling was conducted for their staff and children.The χ2 tests were used to analyze the differences in the qualified rate of total hand bacteria count before and after hand hygiene among staff and children. Results The total bacterial count qualification rates after hand hygiene were higher than those before hand hygiene for both staff (93.5% vs. 80.9%, χ2=15.199, P<0.001) and children (87.9% vs. 78.6%, χ2=6.673, P=0.010). The overall hand hygiene compliance rates were 30.2% for staff and 24.7% for children. Staff who washed hands for ≥20 seconds had a higher compliance rate than those washing for <20 seconds (χ2=5.673, P=0.017). Children in private institutions, those washing hands for ≥20 seconds, and those assisted by staff showed higher hand hygiene compliance rates compared to their counterparts in public institutions, those washing hands for <20 seconds, and those without assisted by staff (P<0.05). Conclusions The qualified rates of total hand bacteria count among staff and children in kindergarten in some areas of Anhui Province are relatively high, but the hand hygiene effects are not good in our study.
Objective To assess the current status of disinfection quality in medical institutions of Shaanxi Province, and to provide scientific evidence for improving disinfection practices and healthcare-associated infection prevention and control. Methods A stratified cluster sampling method was adopted to collect samples from 18 community health centers, 32 secondary general hospitals, and 16 tertiary general hospitals in Shaanxi Province. The total bacterial colony count was detected on object surfaces, hygienic hand surfaces, surgical hand surfaces, and medical water. Results A total of 4 938 samples were tested between 2022 and 2024, with an overall disinfection qualification rate of 95.30%. The qualification rates for object surfaces, hygienic hand surfaces, surgical hand surfaces, and medical water were 96.36%, 92.14%, 98.17%, and 92.61%, respectively. Conclusion The overall disinfection qualification rate in medical institutions of Shaanxi Province is satisfactory, but supervision and management in certain weak areas still need to be strengthened.
Objective To investigate the disinfection quality of childcare institutions in Songjiang District, and to provide a basis for improving the infectious disease prevention and control. Methods Field sampling and laboratory testing were employed. From 2015 to 2023, various types and levels of childcare institutions in Songjiang District were sampled annually for disinfection quality monitoring. The total bacterial count was tested in indoor air, environmental surfaces, tableware, staff hands, and handwash/soap. Additionally, coliform bacteria were tested on environmental surfaces, tableware, and staff hands. Results The overall average qualification rate for disinfection quality in Songjiang District's childcare institutions from 2015 to 2023 was 94.77%. Among the monitored items, staff hands had the lowest qualification rate (85.66%), followed by water faucets (95.76%) and tableware (96.24%). The qualification rate for handwash/soap was 93.98%. Private institutions had a lower qualification rate (92.74%) compared to public institutions (96.04%). Conclusion The overall disinfection quality in Songjiang District's childcare institutions is satisfactory. However, improvement is needed in the disinfection of staff hands, tableware, and water faucets.
Objective To investigate the disinfection effect of a grade A tertiary hospital and to furnish a scientific foundation for the prevention and control of nosocomial infections. Methods The disinfection effects of air,object surface, disinfectant in use, hands of medical staff, endoscope, and sewage in a a Grade A Tertiary Hospital in Mianyang from 2017 to 2023 were monitored and analyzed. Results A total of 2766 samples were collected from 2017 to 2023, with 2 704 being qualified, and the pass rate was 97.76%. There was a significant difference in the qualified rate of disinfection monitoring each year (χ2=20.784, P<0.05). The qualified rate of using disinfectant was the highest (100.00%), whihe the qualified rate of medical staff’s hands was the lowest (95.03%). There was a statistically significant difference in the qualification rate between 2017—2019 and 2020—2023 (χ2=5.076, P=0.024).There was no significant difference in the qualified rates of surface, air, hands of medical staff and endoscope monitoring for seven consecutive years(P>0.05). The difference of the qualified rate of sewage monitoring for seven consecutive years was statistically significant (χ2=13.736, P<0.05). Conclusion The disinfection quality of the hospital is generally good. It is still necessary to strengthen the training and supervision of hand hygiene, endoscopic disinfection, sewage treatment and other key links of medical staff.
Objective To observe the practical efficacy of applying a medical steam cleaner in the cleaning process of instruments with complex lumens. Methods A total of 300 sets of clinically circulated bone marrow puncture needles, bone marrow biopsy needles, lumbar puncture needles, and loaner lumened instruments from a hospital between August and December 2024 were selected. Based on the cleaning method, they were divided into two groups: the test group (n=600 sets) received ultrasonic cleaning followed by medical steam cleaner cleaning, and the control group (n=600 sets) received ultrasonic cleaning followed by high-pressure water gun cleaning. Cleaning qualification rates were assessed by visual inspection and ATP bioluminescence assay. Occupational exposure incidence and processing time were calculated, and staff satisfaction was surveyed using an evaluation scale. Results The qualification rates determined by visual inspection and ATP bioluminescence assay in the test group were 98.33% and 96.67%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the control group (89.17% and 84.17%, P<0.001). The occupational exposure incidence and average processing time in the test group were 0.3% and (27.78±2.95) seconds, respectively, both significantly lower than those in the control group (1.2% and (39.16±3.27) seconds, P<0.001). Conclusion The medical steam cleaner can significantly improve the cleaning qualification rate and processing efficiency of instruments with complex lumens, also can reduce the incidence of occupational exposure, and enhance staff satisfaction.
Objective To evaluate the application efficacy of a novel fixed cleaning basket in the cleaning, disinfection, and transport of glass cupping devices. Methods A total of 3,259 cupping devices used after traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) procedures in a hospital from March to April 2024 were selected as the control group, and 3,267 devices used from May to June 2024 as the observation group. In the observation group, used cupping devices were inverted and placed into the novel fixed cleaning basket, which was then used throughout the entire process of collection, sorting, cleaning, disinfection, drying, inspection, packaging, and distribution. In the control group, used devices were placed in collection containers, manually rearranged into standard cleaning baskets by staff in the decontamination area, then cleaned and dried before being individually returned to delivery containers for distribution to clinical departments. Cleaning efficacy, processing time, and damage rates were compared between the two groups. Results No statistically significant difference was found in the qualification rate of cleaning quality between the two groups (χ2=0.254, P=0.614). The observation group showed significantly lower manual processing time and damage rates compared to the control group [(17.3±2.4) vs (23.7±5.6) minutes, 1.47% vs. 3.27%] (χ2=5.741; 22.458, P<0.001). Conclusion The use of the novel fixed cleaning basket does not affect the cleaning efficacy of cupping devices, but improves turnover efficiency, reduces damage rates, and lowers departmental costs.
Objective To investigate the effect of pre-moistening treatment on the manual cleaning efficacy of Da Vinci robotic arms, and to provide a basis for improving the cleaning of such instruments. Methods Da Vinci robotic arms processed in the Central Sterile Supply Departments (CSSD) of two tertiary hospitals in Beijing were selected as the study objects. Based on the study timeline, they were divided into a control group and an observation group. The control group underwent routine cleaning, while the observation group received pre-moistening treatment followed by routine cleaning. Cleaning efficacy was evaluated by visual inspection and ATP bioluminescence detection. Results The qualification rate of ATP detection for the lumens of robotic arms in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (96.36% vs. 84.06%, χ2=4.938, P<0.05). For robotic arms with a pre-cleaning retention time exceeding 1 hour, the lumen ATP qualification rate in the observation group was also higher than that in the control group (94.44% vs. 75.75%, χ2=4.852, P<0.05). In terms of ATP relative light unit (RLU) values, the observation group showed lower lumen ATP values than the control group (Z=-13.03, P<0.05). Similarly, for arms retained for over 1 hour before cleaning, the observation group had lower lumen ATP values than the control group (Z=-3.18, P<0.05). Conclusion Pre-moistening treatment of used Da Vinci robotic arms can effectively improve their cleaning efficacy, particularly for the luminal areas.
