The Clostridium difficile (C diff.) bacteria can survive on hospital bed linens even after being washed, according to a new study.
The findings offers healthcare facilities a new possible source for C diff. outbreaks, according to an article on the Modern Healthcare website.
The study looked at swatches of cotton sheets contaminated with C. diff. that were then laundered with sterile uncontaminated pieces of fabric to measure the levels of contamination before and after washing.
The study warned that hospitals using commercial washers to decontaminate sheets with C diff. could be spreading the bacteria when washed sheets are then reused and mixed in with uncontaminated sheets.
Containing Candida Auris Across the Care Continuum
Early Entry: Manager's Critical Role in Construction Planning
OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital Earns Critical Access Hospital Designation
Designing a Home Away from Home
Stephens County Hospital Becoming Part of Wellstar Health System