A team of US scientists has identified bacteria in a hospital setting that have developed resistance to chlorhexidine, and they tracked how these organisms spread throughout the facility. The study’s findings and recommendations for the judicious use of antiseptics were published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.
It is a known phenomenon that microorganisms adapt to low concentrations of antiseptics which remain on patients’ skin or various hospital surfaces following treatment. The core issue is the bacteria’s capacity to exchange DNA fragments among themselves, a process that enables them to acquire resistance not only to antibiotics but also to antiseptics. The specialists aimed to trace the dissemination of bacteria resistant to chlorhexidine.
The researchers collected 219 samples from bed rails, light switches, and other surfaces within intensive care units, successfully isolating 1.4 thousand bacterial strains. Of these, 36% demonstrated resistance to chlorhexidine.
To gauge the persistence of chlorhexidine activity on surfaces, the experts applied it to various materials. Residues of the antiseptic remained detectable for a full day on plastic, metal, and laminate, even subsequent to cleaning with water and other chemical agents. While this level of antiseptic was insufficient to eradicate the bacteria, it permitted the most robust microorganisms to survive.
Although the antiseptic was applied only to patient skin within the unit, traces of it were detected in widely differing locations. The specialists followed the movement of the bacteria and discovered that the highest concentrations accumulated near sinks. Splashes generated aerosolized particles, which subsequently dispersed the bacteria via the air.
The researchers advocate for a more thoughtful application of antiseptics to mitigate the risks of fostering bacterial resistance. Furthermore, monitoring the airflow within these environments is crucial.
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