Researchers evaluate several aggressive chemistries for reduction of C. diff

Chlorinated lime and peracetic acid were statistically superior to acidified bleach and the non-antimicrobial handwash, according to the study

By Healthcare Facilities Today


Clostridium difficile infection is a significant issue in healthcare facilities, and proper hand hygiene is recommended to help prevent C. diff transmission. It is known that alcohol based-handrubs are ineffective at killing C. diff spores and recent studies demonstrate that the efficacy of handwashing is limited, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

A recent study sought to evaluate several aggressive chemistries including chlorinated lime for reduction of C. difficile spores.

In the study, spores of non-toxigenic C. diff were distributed onto the palms of subject’s hands. A series of hand hygiene procedures were evaluated including a 30-second non-antimicrobial handwash and a five-minute hand disinfection procedure with a scrub brush using 4 percent chlorinated lime, 2000 ppm peracetic acid, or 1,000 ppm acidified bleach.

Chlorinated lime and peracetic acid were statistically superior to acidified bleach and the non-antimicrobial handwash, according to the article.

Read the article.

 

 

 



November 18, 2013


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

High-Performance EFCO Systems Shape MUSC's New Black River Medical Center

Case study: A sweeping curved-glass entrance, impact-resistant envelope and energy-efficient fenestration support a sustainable, resilient design for one of South Carolina’s newest rural hospitals.


Heritage Valley Health System to Officially Affiliate with Alleghany Health Network

With the affiliation now complete, Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley will be rebranded.


The Impact of Acoustics on Patient Privacy

As healthcare facilities evolve toward more open and flexible care environments, acoustic privacy has become essential.


Texas Behavioral Health Center in Dallas Opens with Ribon-Cutting Ceremony

The 456,265-square-foot facility offers a variety of therapeutic, recreational and social spaces that prepare patients for life outside the hospital.


Banner Health to Sell Banner Lassen Medical Center to Quorum Health

The transaction is expected to be completed in December 2026, pending required regulatory approvals.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.