engleski

Point of use filtration efficiently protects against water bacteria)

Contamination of the water supply with potentially pathogenic microorganisms is very common. Common bacterial species include Legionella species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and atypical mycobacteria. Cryptosporidium and some non-pathogenic protozoa capable of supporting growth of Legionella spp can be also found in water. Hospital water supplies are also frequently contaminated with pathogens. For certain patient groups there is a higher risk of infection due to waterborne organisms. The risk is particularly relevant for immunocompromised patients such as transplant recipients, critically ill patients and neonates. Other potential route of waterborne infection is contamination of instruments and adjacent surfaces. Normal methods of water treatment may not remove pathogens from water supply. Some measures which are taken for reduction of possible Legionella infection (avoidance of showering, avoidance of drinking tap water) are time consuming and expensive. In case of epidemics there is also need for prompt measures. Experience obtained in CHC Zagreb in one NICU and one surgical ICU by point-of-use water filters (Pall-Aquasafe, Pall Medical) showed reduction of waterborne bacteria in samples taken from patients and environment. In a 2-year period after introduction of point-of-use filters there were not detected infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Legionella which can be attributed to tap water. Point-of-use filtration are indicated to remove bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and particles from the water supply and provide protection to patients and vulnerable users by acting as a barrier to these common waterborne pathogens, and thus reducing the risk of water associated nosocomial infection and sanitary cost.

water supply; contamintion; filtration

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