Recently an abstract in Open Medicine http://www.openmedicine * noted: “Elevators are ubiquitous and active inside hospitals, potentially facilitating bacterial transmission. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of bacterial colonization on elevator buttons in large urban teaching hospitals.”
“Methods: A total of 120 elevator buttons and 96 toilet surfaces were swabbed over separate intervals at 3 tertiary care hospitals on weekdays and weekends in Toronto, Ontario.
“Results: The prevalence of colonization of elevator buttons was 61% (95% confidence interval 52%–70%).
“Conclusion: Hospital elevator buttons were commonly colonized by bacteria, although most pathogens were not clinically relevant. The risk of pathogen transmission might Elevator buttons as unrecognized sources of bacterial colonization in hospitals be reduced by simple countermeasures. “
* to read the full Open Medicine abstract “Elevator buttons as unrecognized sources of bacterial colonization in hospitals” by Christopher Kandel et al, highlight and click on open hyperlink http://www.openmedicine.ca/article/view/634/554
Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.