Assessing the effect of selected cleaning agents (jik, ethanol and liquid soap) on isolated nosocomial organisms at Bukewa health centre III Manafwa district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background Hospital-acquired infections are significant reasons for increased morbidity and mortality, and even costs. This study assessed the effect of selected cleaning agents (Jik, Ethanol, and Liquid soap) on isolated nosocomial organisms at Bukewa Health Centre III Manafwa District Methodology A cross-sectional, laboratory-based study was conducted. Swabs were taken from environmental surfaces, and a total of 112 environmental swabs were collected from within the health facility. The swabs were cultured to isolate nosocomial organisms and characterized using standard microbiological techniques (Gram stain, biochemistry tests) to identify isolates. The cleaning agents were then applied onto the contaminated surfaces to determine if Jik, ethanol, and liquid soap reduced the CFU of each organism. The pre- and post-treatment CFU were compared for percentage reduction. The data that was collected was entered and analysed using Microsoft Excel 2013. Results The four nosocomial organisms identified were Staphylococcus aureus (37.0%), Escherichia coli (27.2%), Enterococcus faecalis (19.6%), and Proteus mirabilis (16.3%), respectively. In the cross-comparison among disinfecting agents, Jik had the highest total antimicrobial effectiveness, with a CFU reduction of 90% or higher for all isolates. Ethanol had moderate effectiveness (78% - 86.7%), and liquid soap had the lowest effectiveness of each disinfecting agent, with percentage reductions of 56.7% to 64.8%. The cross-comparison demonstrated that Jik was the only and most effective agent for all organisms compared. Conclusion Jik is the most effective disinfectant against common nosocomial organisms isolated from Bukewa Health Center III. Revisions in cleaning protocols should emphasize, where applicable, their use for infection prevention and control purposes. Recommendations Health care and cleaning staff with infection prevention and control responsibilities must receive continual training about disinfecting procedures that include dilution, contact time, and frequency of use specific to each cleaner.