Evaluation of Different Methods for Hygienic Microbiological Control from the Working Surfaces in the Microbiological Laboratories

摘要

Evaluation of Different Methods for Hygienic Microbiological Control from the Working Surfaces in the Microbiological LaboratoriesBackground: The role of the inter-hospital non-living environment in spreading of some infections is not universally accepted attitude, but still there is a proof that in some cases it is a risk factor for causing infections with some pathogenic microorganisms. Isolation of microorganisms from the non-living environment can significantly vary in reproducibility and sensitivity of different methods of collecting specimen and its cultivation.Aim: In aim to develop and assess hygienic control strategies with incorporating better monitoring and improved cleaning, we have undertaken this survey in microbiological labs to offer better approach in infection control procedures for sampling specimens from inanimate environment in health care facilities.Material and Methods: Three issues might have influence on isolation rates of the mircroorganisms: sampling technique, cultivation methods and professional behaviour of the staff regarding the recommendations and guidelines for hygiene of the workplace. Staphylococcus aureus was almost the only isolated opportunistic microorganism from the surfaces of the workplaces (five from ten), beside Enterococcus, and there was no obvious differentiation in isolation capability between both used swabs. Semi-quantitative method was used for cultivation of saprophytic bacteria. Average of cfu from all used nutrient media was used to estimate bio-mass.Results: Mann-Whitney U test has confirmed statistically significant differentiation between average of cfu (colony-forming unit) (p = 0.0215) sampled with Quanti swab in comparison with wet traditional cotton swab. Plating with swab on trypticase soy agar showed a statistically significant difference between the number of cfu after 24h and 48 h (Wilcoxon Matched Pairs Test: Z = 2.66; p = 0.0076). Plating with pouring on trypticase soy agar at 45°C revealed a statistically significant difference between the number of cfu after 24h and 48 h (Wilcoxon Matched Pairs Test: Z = 2.52; p = 0.01171).Conclusion: This survey suggests that pour plate method is a more sensitive and appropriate cultivation method for hygienic control in healthcare facilities.