The Clorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal Wipes reduced C. difficile infection rates from 14.99 (per 10,000 patient days) to zero in a six-month period, according to a new study.
Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles Santa Monica Medical Center looked at the use of the wipes in a 26-bed medical oncology unit. But long-term care may also benefit, as the “high-touch wipe down” protocol initiated in 2015 was focused on CDI rate reduction.
Canisters of Clorox Healthcare® Bleach Germicidal Wipes were placed in every patient room and at nursing stations and used by nurses and care partners to wipe down high-touch surfaces, such as bed frames, call lights, monitor cables and countertops.
Employees also received education that included training, annual skills labs and post-training tests.
From February to July 2015, the rate of CDIs per 10,000 patient days decreased from 14.99 in 2014, to zero. In 2016, there were 6.1 cases per 10,000 patient days reported, and the most current data from 2017 showed a further decrease to 3.4 cases per 10,000 patient days.
The protocol has now been implemented throughout the hospital.
