Infection-prevention specialists think these efforts are promising but still preliminary. Most have not been tested in randomized clinical trials that could record whether the engineered surfaces were solely responsible for reducing patient infections.

“They need a lot more work, but I do think they will be a part of the solution,” says Eli Perencevich, an infection-control specialist at the University of Iowa and interim director of the Center for Comprehensive Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation at the Department of Veterans Affairs, who consults for PurThread. Yet, he adds, they will be one additional weapon against infections, not a replacement for other strategies: “We can never let go of making sure that surfaces are cleaned and that health care workers wear gloves and wash their hands.”

7 Comments

1. 1. huis58 09:22 PM 8/18/12

   Once long ago, I read an article that during WW II there were hospitals in salt mines. Infection was just about unknown in those hospitals. Perhaps our hospitals could use a salt solution as the last step in cleaning all items that the salt would not destroy and let the items air dry to maintain a salt film. It probably would be an inexpensive experiment.

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2. 2. aburwick 05:49 PM 8/25/12

   Dear SA and Ms. McKenna, I really enjoyed your article about the need for innovation and increased safety protocols regarding hospital cleanliness. As an industry insider, I can tell you firsthand that you are correct in your assertion that most hospitals are woefully neglectful in this area.
   I did just want to point out that in your opening paragraph, you made a slight error. Gamma knife is not a generic term, but a copyrighted product name, which is manufactured by Elekta and should be noted accordingly. Also, radiosurgery equipment such as the Gamma Knife are not run by radiologists, but radiation oncologists. Actually, they are run by medical physicists and radiotherapy technicians, but this work is supervised by the radiation oncologist. Otherwise, great article.

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3. 3. julianpenrod 05:34 PM 9/11/12

   So they're calling them "janitors" again, not "custodians" or "maintenance engineers" or some such. But, then, they're calling it "Burma", now, not "Myanmar". A right wing expression of what's what, to remind "the little guy" of his place. "You're job is what we call it, even your nation is what we call it!" You're "at the bottom", even Scientific American says it!
   With respect to the article, note contra "science" initiated intuitive interpretation of the situation.
   For years, "science" has been warning about pathogens mutating to resistant forms because of a claimed overuse of antibiotics and other such treatments. The article describes these organisms as being so prevalent, they can now be found on surfaces in hospitals. "Science's" solution, carry on the same kind of super hygienic assault that "science" claimsproducxed the resistant bugs in the first place! What proof do they have that it wasn't an already overdone sanitary system that created the germs that can live on apparently eminently sanitary surfaces?
   Or are they looking foward to the day the New World Order launches a pandemic to control mankind, and they want to have a scapegoat ready, those "at the bottom", the "janitors"?

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4. 4. jimfromcanada 06:23 PM 9/11/12

   I think this is a very important part of medical care, and can be considered a response to the "do no harm" part of the Hippocratic Oath.
   The blame game approach i.e. the medical staff aren't washing their hands often enough. and the cleaning staff aren't doing their job needs to be replaced with a more professional attitude. All actors in the medical system need to accept the fact that they may need to change their procedures because everyone has responsibility to bring about good outcomes for the patients. A hospital is a team

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5. 5. pamschmeck 07:53 PM 9/11/12

   At least one company is already putting metals into their fibers to inhibit growth and spread of bacteria. Norwex has micro silver in its Enviro Cloth, not just sprayed on as most companies do, so they can be machine washed and dried. They are used extensively in Norway and Canada. Take a look at my webpage if you'd like more information:
   http://pamelaschmeckpeper.norwex.biz/?p=n&sectid=4

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6. 6. tucanofulano 10:00 PM 9/11/12

   "Doah" !

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7. 7. kowahealthcare 04:54 PM 4/22/13

   If not washed frequently enough, anything can carry germs . Luckily, cubicle curtains are easy to take care of and just simply need to be thrown in the wash. Our recommendation is to machine wash in water not to exceed 160° F. using Synthetic setting and mild detergent. Be sure to not use bleach or fabric softener. We have some other helpful tips here: http://www.covoc.com/cubicle-curtain-care

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