Security Swipe Cards and Scanners are a Potential Reservoir for Hospital-Acquired Infection

摘要

INTRODUCTIONHospital-acquired infections complicate 10% of hospital admissions resulting in increased morbidity, mortality and cost to hospitals. Most hospitals issue doctors with plastic swipe cards that function as electronic keys to access clinical areas. The card is handled many times a day, often before direct patient contact. The aim of this study was to determine if swipe cards harbour potentially harmful bacteria.