In-Situ Disinfection of Hospital Privacy Curtains Using a Next-Generation Aerosolized Hydrogen Peroxide System
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Background
Privacy curtains represent a uniquely difficult infection control surface because they are frequently touched by patients, visitors, and healthcare workers, yet are difficult to disinfect using routine environmental cleaning protocols. We sought to quantify the performance of a novel automated aerosolized hydrogen peroxide system against pathogens on privacy curtains.
Methods
This study was performed in an enclosed office space (≈ 65 m³), approximating a patient exam room. Four Bacillus atrophaeus (ATCC 9372) biological indicators (BIs) were affixed to a standard polyester privacy curtain. A single one-minute fogging phase was followed by a ten-minute contact/aeration phase (total = 11 min). Four corresponding chemical indicators measured peak airborne aerosolized hydrogen peroxide concentration, and two control BIs were placed outside of the room.
Results
All four BIs demonstrated complete inactivation (no growth after seven-day incubation), representing ≥4-log 10 spore reduction. Peak dosages reached 42 ppm nearest the aerosolized hydrogen peroxide jet outlet, with the lowest value at the near point on the back side of the curtain reaching 27 ppm (exceeding the target dosage of 25 ppm). Control exposures failed to achieve sterilization.
Conclusions
A next-generation aerosolized hydrogen peroxide dry-fogging disinfection system achieved full inactivation of resistant spores on both sides of privacy curtains within a short 11-minute automated cycle.
