Cleaning and Disinfection in the Hemodialysis Setting

The process of physical cleaning of environmental surfaces using detergent (soap), water, and friction is the critical step required prior to surface disinfection. The combination of the cleaning and disinfection processes is designed to remove and kill vegetative microorganisms on surfaces. Disinfection will not be effective in the presence of dirt, blood, or other bio…

Don’t Forget the Bacterial Threat

According to Mitchell Schwaber, MD, from the National Center for Infection Control of the Israel Ministry of Health, bacterial infection threats are not getting the attention they deserve given that the World Health Organization and public health agencies continue to focus on the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus. While methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has…

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus (MRSA)

What is MRSA? Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that causes serious infections that are resistant to many of the strongest antibiotics, including methicillin and other more commonly used antibiotics (including penicillin and amoxicillin). (1) MRSA occurs most frequently among patients who undergo invasive medical procedures or who have weakened immune systems…

Steps for preventing infections in the MRI

Suggestions for Infection control procedures for free-standing imaging centers and hospital radiology departments The cleanliness of free-standing imaging centers and hospital radiology departments is crucial for reducing the spread of MRSA and other acquired infections. The following are 11 simple procedures to implement that can prevent the spread of these infections. 1. Have a written…