Title : A study of chrisal probiotics for more efficient cleaning in tygerberg burns unit and as a method of decreasing nosocomial infections
Abstract:
Introduction: Biofilm in hospital environments provides the ideal environment for pathogenic bacteria to thrive. Cleaning and disinfection does not affect bacteria 'hiding' in the biofilm. By using environmentally friendly probiotic bacteria to eliminate biofilm there may be reduced the risk of hospital acquired infection. A prospective controlled study was designed to investigate this.
Aim(s): The primary objective of the study was to determine whether probiotics can reduce Hospital Acquired Infections (HAI’s) in the Burns unit. The secondary objective was to establish a reduction and/or elimination of biofilm. The third objective was to determine the cost effectiveness and cost reductions.
Methods: The Burn Unit was divided into different areas and assigned a number to each test and comparative normal cleaning treatment zone in different rooms. We informed the cleaning staff to use only the Probiotic products in each of the designated test areas. A baseline surface swab for culture was done in each area. Swabs were taken again for culture weekly. Ethical considerations: Stellenbosch University Health Research Ethics approval N17/04/045.
Results: The results indicate that probiotic cleansing in the hospital environment may be a cost-effective way of decreasing environmental biofilms and HAI’s.
Conclusion/Recommendations: Based on the results further recommendations as to the application of probiotics are indicated, and a prospective study looking at the effects on wound cleaning is planned.
