Low-pressure taps at hospital blamed for babies' infections

The taps were designed for water savings and were unlikely to be flushing with enough force or volume to remove bacteria


Low-pressure taps have been blamed for four babies' infection in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Baby Unit at Royal Bolton Hospital in the U.K. last year, according to an article on the This Is Lancashire website.

The bacteria had spread through contaminated taps and sinks, which were being used by staff to wash their hands. An investigation found the taps were not being cleaned adequately.

The taps were designed for water savings and were unlikely to be flushing with enough force or volume to remove bacteria.

Cleaners were unaware of the presence of the bacteria so their usual cleaning methods were not removing the bug.

Read the article.

 

 



November 8, 2018


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Seeking Standards for Microbial Loads in Healthcare Facilities

Why is there no binding standard for the acceptable microbial load on surfaces or in the air in hospitals?


UCR Health Unveils Plans for Major Expansion

The vision for the site will include an outpatient diagnostic center and possible future expansion.


High-Performance Windows Support Safety at UW Medicine's New Behavioral Health Center

Case study: Engineered for strength, quiet and daylight, the chosen windows help create a safe, calming and energy-efficient environment for patients and providers.


Central Maine Healthcare Dealing with IT System Outage

The organization identified unusual activity within their computer software, prompting them to secure and shut off all IT systems.


Kaiser Permanente Opens Newly Expanded Everett Medical Center

The facility offers primary care and pediatric care and has specialty care departments.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.