Hospital wipes may spread bacteria rather than kill them

A survey has revealed that improper use of disinfectant wipes used in hospitals and medical clinics may spread drug-resistant bacteria rather than kill them.

Hygiene and cleaning in clinical environments is extremely important, and disinfectant wipes and sprays, and other hygiene supplies can help the spread of bacteria.

The survey was lead by Dr Gareth Williams at Cardiff University and investigated the cleaning methods of intensive care units in two hospitals.

It found that although wipes can be effective for removing, killing and preventing the transfer of pathogens, such as MRSA, they must be used in the correct way by being used only once.

The survey reported that the practice of using one wipe for several surfaces before throwing it away is likely to result in the spread of potentially deadly MRSA infections and high number of bacteria.

MRSA kills nearly 2,000 hospital patients each year, although the number is believed to be nearer 5,000.

Wipes have been used in hospital and clinical environments for the past few years, and are used for infection control. As revealed by the survey, as long as they are used correctly, wipes can be an effective way of preventing the risk of spreading potentially dangerous bacteria.

Mobilis Healthcare stocks a wide range of recommended disinfectant wipes and sprays for preventing the spread of bacteria.

Ebiox Trianic wipes and Alcowipes are for surfaces and medical devises, while skin disinfectants, such as Hydex Dernma spray and Hibiscrub, are also useful for reducing the risk of transferring bacteria.