Wipes may spread hospital bacteria

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Researchers in Wales developed a three-step test to assess the efficiency of disinfecting measures using wipes.

They found that some wipes removed more bacteria than others, but often the bugs were not killed. There was a danger of wipes collecting bacteria from one surface and transferring them to others.

The researchers tested the ability of several wipe brands to clean surfaces contaminated with strains of Staphylococcus aureus, including the MRSA (methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) "superbug".

Earlier the scientists had watched hospital staff using wipes near patients to clean frequently touched surfaces such as bed rails, monitors, tables and key pads.

They found that wipes were often applied to the same spot several times and used on more than one surface.

The scientists concluded that to be most effective, each wipe should be used once only on one surface and then thrown away.

Study leader Dr Gareth Williams, from the University of Cardiff's Welsh School of Pharmacy, said: "Our surveillance study ... has been highly revealing in that it has highlighted the risks associated with the way decontamination products are currently being deployed in Welsh hospitals and the need for routine observation as well as proper training in the use of these wipes in reducing risks of infection to patients.

"On the whole, wipes can be effective in removing, killing and preventing the transfer of pathogens such as MRSA but only if used in the right way. We found that the most effective way is to prevent the risk of MRSA spread in hospital wards is to ensure the wipe is used only once on one surface."

Antimicrobial wipes were introduced in Welsh hospitals in 2005.