Resistance to infections is paramount, especially in settings like hospitals where vulnerable people are exposed to potential disease carriers. For this reason, a study has been carried out to understand the best strategies to prevent Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) colonization and transmission in handwashing sinks in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU). Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacteria associated with healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs), and its presence in such units poses significant health risks.
The research conducted in the period between August and December 2024, focused on nine handwashing sinks in the PICU. The selection criteria included three consecutive positive PA detections, usage frequency of 20 times a day or more, and no prior special disinfection interventions.
Three disinfectants were tested, namely: 500 mg/L chlorine-containing disinfectant, 0.5% benzalkonium chloride disinfectant, and 75% ethanol stock solution. The research team applied three disinfection procedures including flushing, soaking, and slow-release soaking. They took into consideration sampling before disinfection, 1 minute after disinfection, and 24 hours post-disinfection.
Among the disinfectants, the most immediately effective was 75% ethanol. However, the study found reoccurrence of PA after 24 hours. Chlorine-containing disinfectant showed stable results with an optimal 24-hour bacteriostatic effect, while benzalkonium chloride was less effective.
According to the study, the soaking methods were significantly more effective in biofilm removal compared to the rinsing technique. In particular, the chlorine-containing disinfectant soaking method demonstrated the most comprehensive effect on PA-contaminated handwashing sinks in the PICU. Future research was suggested to explore more sink disinfection methods.
This knowledge offers valuable insights for infection prevention professionals, helping them understand the most suitable disinfection routines for healthcare spaces. Researchers have suggested adopting the chlorine-containing disinfectant soaking method as a regular precaution in order to prevent PA colonization.