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.
Emergency Preparedness: Building a Stronger Community
Ground Broken on Lavine Bekenstein Cancer Hospital in Massachusetts
Camden-on-Gauley Medical Center Reports Data Security Incident
Elevating EVS Professionals: The Case for Certified Hygiene Specialists
Global Handwashing Day and the Importance of Well-Maintained Restrooms