THE PLASTIC BATH BASIN is a mainstay in many hospital rooms, often issued at admission and used throughout a hospital stay to hold supplies and
bath water. A new study, though, shows that these ubiquitous basins also often harbor potentially dangerous bacteria.
A study published in the American Journal of Critical Care examinedbath basins from 3 acute care hospitals, spread throughout the country. Each bath basin was swabbed at least 2 hours
after patient bathing, after the basins had been emptied and allowed to air-dry.
Among the samples, 98% grew some bacteria, with the most common being enterococci, gram-negative organisms, Staphylococcus aureus, and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
Noting the risks of cross-contamination and healthcare-associated infections, the authors recommend investigating alternative
bathing products, such as prepackaged baths. Jennifer L.W. Fink, RN, BSN
REFERENCE
Johnson D, Lineweaver, L, Maze LM. Patients' bath basins as potential sources of infection: a multicenter sampling study.
Am J Crit Care. 2009;18(1):31-38, 41.
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