Investigation of Type of Residual Bacteria Present in Bath Basins used for Hospitalized Patients

In hospitalized patients, residual pathogens found in bath basins may contribute to hospital-acquired infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), leading to further complications and increasing patient length of hospital stay. Bath basins have also been used in hospital rooms for multiple purposes including: vomiting, bath products, storage of patient belongings, and wound care products.  Does the bath basin that has been used twice and cleaned in the usual manner harbor bacteria that creates a risk factor for hospital-acquired infection? A total of 33 basins were used in ICU, PCU, and 2 North. The basin was numbered on the bottom of basin and kept in each room. After the basin was used for 2 consecutive baths, it was washed and dried in the usual manner. The basin was then swabbed, using Biotrace SpongeSicle Prehydrated 3M swab. Cultures were obtained and sent to an outside laboratory for analysis. Infection prevention experts were consulted and approval was obtained from the Value Analysis committee. It was found that bath basins did contain residual bacteria. Initial implementation began with obtaining agreement of staff, managers, administration, and supply chain management.  In order to protect our patients, decrease the occurrence of CAUTI, and protect perineal tissue, it was determined that the use of bath basins should be eliminated and the addition of a moisturizing and conditioning skin cleanser be used with warm moistened washcloths in a disposable plastic bag for each patient. The “bath in a bag” process began in the ICU and PCU on July 1^st, 2014 and one month later all units changed to the new process. A second change was the improvement of bath cleanser that adds moisture to the skin using this recommendation; we also stop potential bacteria-laden basins from being sent home with the patients.