Loveday, Heather ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2259-8149, Wilson, Jennie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4713-9662, Kerr, Karolyn, Pitchers, R., Walker, J. and Browne, Jessica (2014) The association between healthcare water systems and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections: a rapid systematic review. Journal of Hospital Infection, 86 (1). pp. 7-15. ISSN 0195-6701

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Abstract

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen with a particular propensity to cause disease in the immunocompromised. Water systems have been reported to contribute to P. aeruginosa transmission in healthcare settings.
Aim

To systematically assess the evidence that healthcare water systems are associated with P. aeruginosa infection; to review aspects of design that can increase their potential to act as a reservoir; and to compare the efficacy of strategies for eradicating contamination and preventing infection.
Methods

A rapid review methodology with a three-step search strategy was used to identify published studies. Scientific advisors were used to identify unpublished studies.

Findings

Twenty-five relevant studies were included. There was plausible evidence of transmission of P. aeruginosa from water systems to patients and vice versa, although no direct evidence to explain the exact mode of transfer. Two studies provided plausible evidence for effective interventions: point-of-use filters and increasing chlorine disinfection. Non-touch taps and aspects of water system design were identified as probable risk factors for P. aeruginosa biofilm formation and subsequent transmission to patients. Poor hand hygiene or compliance with contact precautions were identified as potential contributory factors; plausible evidence to confirm this was not available.
Conclusions

Water systems can act as a source of P. aeruginosa infection in healthcare settings, although the route of transmission is unclear. Contamination appears to be confined to the distal ends of a water system and can persist for prolonged periods. Further studies are required to establish effective methods of preventing transmission and eradicating P. aeruginosa from plumbing systems.

Item Type:	Article
Identifier:	10.1016/j.jhin.2013.09.010
Keywords:	Colonization Infection Plumbing Pseudomonas aeruginosa Transmission Water
Subjects:	Medicine and health > Clinical medicine
Depositing User:	Rod Pow
Date Deposited:	28 May 2014 13:51
Last Modified:	06 Feb 2024 15:41
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/884

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