Privacy curtains in hospitals can harbor high levels of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), according to an article on the Becker's Clinical Leadership & Infection Control website.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control tracked the contamination level of 10 freshly laundered privacy curtains at a hospital in Winnipeg, Canada.
The curtains had minimal contamination when they were first hung, but curtains in patient rooms became increasingly contaminated over time.
In two weeks, 87.5 percent of the curtains tested positive for MRSA.
A 'Superbug' Is on the Rise in Hospitals
The Next Generation of Security Tech in Healthcare Facilities
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of St. Petersburg Opens
Why More Facilities are Adding Gender Neutral Restrooms
Massachusetts Hospital Cyberattack Reflects Growing Vulnerability in Healthcare Systems