Measuring the efficacy of standard and novel disinfection methods on frequently used physical therapy equipment: a 2-phase prospective randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Frequently used physical therapy (PT) equipment is difficult to disinfect due to equipment material and shape. The efficacy of standard disinfection of PT equipment is poorly understood.

Methods

We completed a 2-phase prospective microbiological analysis of fomites used in PT at our hospital from September 2022 to October 2023. For both phases, study fomites were obtained after usage and split into symmetrical halves for sampling. In phase 1, sides were sampled following standard disinfection. In phase 2, sides were randomized 1:1 to intervention or control. Samples were obtained before and after the intervention, a disinfection cabinet using Ultraviolet C (UV-C) and 6% nebulized hydrogen peroxide. We defined antimicrobial-resistant clinically important pathogens

SUBMITTER: Warren BG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11611508 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature