A recent study said hot-water equipment used in hospitals to conserve energy may be a haven for harmful bacteria, according to an article on the Modern Healthcare website.
Changes in a patient's length of stay, which is falling as a result of healthcare payment reform, can also contribute to the problem.
The study's authors say maintaining elevated water temperatures and ensuring constant circulation throughout a hot water system is important to limiting the growth and persistence of Legionella.
By continually flushing water through a system, engineers can avoid the buildup of biofilm, which can also absorb chlorine used in water as a disinfectant, the article said.
The High Cost of Healthcare Violence
EVS Teams Can Improve Patient Experience in Emergency Departments
East Tennessee Children's Hospital to Become Dolly Parton Children's Hospital
The Future of the Global Hospital Hygiene Market
Rethinking Fire Safety Inspections