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Hospital Faucets Experience!
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Bath Spa |
A study by researchers from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine reveals that electronic faucets may not be appropriate for settings in hospitals where patients are vulnerable. In the research, which went from 2008 to 2009, bacterial levels on various 20 manual and 20 electronic faucets in hospital clinical wards were compared. The results showed that the water samples in 50% of the electronic faucets tested positive for Legionella bacteria, which are known to be the cause of respiratory illness, in contrast to 15% of the manual faucets. Additionally, the results also indicated that of the electronic faucets, 26% had huge bacterial growth, while 13% of the manual faucets had similar issues.Whereas the electronic faucets still showed 29% contamination after disinfection, only 7% of the manual faucets were contaminated. This makes sense, as sensor technology applied in electronic faucets is rather complicated, with folds and grooves that offer a natural habitat for bacteria. Conversely, the clean simplicity of the manual faucet design allows adequate water flow, which results in lesser accumulation of bacteria.Although electronic faucets pose a minimal risk to healthy people, the risk is increased for immunocompromised persons. This can be the reason why a healthcare setup can consider manual faucets appropriate in an effort to eliminate infection risks.The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America still advocates the use of a paper towel or kerchief in turning off the faucet during handwashing to help prevent recontamination. Other best practices include turning the faucets with elbows or lower arms to minimize contact. Following are some practical tips for choosing hospital faucets: Choose faucets based on functionality, not appearance. Understand your plumbing system. Any leaks should be fitted. There should be enough room for comfortable hand washing. With their simple design, traditional wall-mount widespread faucets tend to be more reliable option for hospitals. The modern, sensor-activated faucet does bring a better water-saving aspect and an ideal hygiene situation, but for a hospital situation, the simpler faucet without sensors is still better because it minimizes bacteria production. |
