Note: CRCE (RT's) expires Dec.31, 2010

Contamination and Cross Contamination on Hospital Surfaces and Medical Equipment
Kathleen Meehan Arias, MS, CIC
The role of medical devices, such as bronchoscopes, in the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) has long been recognized, however, the evidence that environmental and medical equipment surfaces play a role in the transmission of HAIs has been weak. Studies have demonstrated that pathogens can be transmitted from surfaces to personnel and patients, and that these pathogens are not adequately removed by routine room cleaning. This has led to an increased focus on the importance of cleaning and disinfecting hospital surfaces and medical equipment and efforts to assess and improve the effectiveness of these practices.

Infection Prevention: Contamination and Cross Contamination on Hospital Surfaces and Medical Equipment.
Moderator: Kathleen Arias, MS, CIC
What is the clinical evidence for the role of surfaces in healthcare-associated infections? While the role of medical devices has long been recognized, the evidence that environmental surfaces, including the surfaces of medical equipment, play a role in the transmission of infection has been much debated. This panel of experts was asked to discuss current strategies for reducing microbial contamination of hospital surfaces and medical equipment.

Rapid Response.

This one-hour computer based learning module has been designed for the bedside healthcare provider and members of the RRT as a primer on the importance of early identification of a patient in crisis, effective team communication during a crisis and rapid assessment and stabilization of the patient.