Increased detection of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae on post-clean sampling of a burns unit's wet surfaces. Issue 2 (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fernando, S.A.; Phan, T.; Parker, C.; Cai, T.; Gottlieb, T.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hospital infection. Volume 101:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 179
• Page End: 182
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Biofilm -- Environmental disinfection -- blaIMP-4 -- Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae -- Burns; Cross infection -- Periodicals; Cross infection -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- prevention & control -- Periodicals; Infection Control -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.44
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2018.10.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6701

Abstract

Summary: Wet surface biofilms are a potential reservoir for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms, including carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE). Recognition of environmental sources is important in reducing secondary patient transmission. We report the increased detection of bla IMP-4 + CPE in environmental samples from floor drains in burns unit shower rooms, when collected following cleaning as compared to pre-cleaning. We propose that disruption of biofilms during cleaning may account for the increased detection of multi-resistant organisms. The results highlight the role of the wet environment as an under-recognized potential source of CPE transmission. Environmental screening focusing on pre-cleaning samples alone will likely underestimate environmental contamination.