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What’s the optimal time for Bacterial Growth and How Can We Battle Infection?

The bad news is that we are outmanned in the war on bacterial growth. All harmful pathogens, especially bacteria, live for one reason; to reproduce. Their purpose in this world is to propagate their species and they are very good at doing so. It is very important to mitigate the presence of these pathogens in all environments, but it is crucial in medical settings. Even a small amount of harmful bacteria may prove fatal for a patient.
The good new is that we are not outgunned in the fight against harmful pathogens. All around the country Environmental Service teams are learning more efficient ways to clean and disinfect high touch areas. High touch areas are the areas on which germs tend to congregate and multiply because of frequent human contact. This includes (but is not limited to);

  • Doorknobs
  • Light switches
  • Arm rests
  • Railings and banisters
  • Television Remotes

Even with daily cleaning and disinfection disease transmission is still known to occur. This is because the population of bacteria, and other pathogens, rebuilds almost immediately after disinfection. This begs two questions; Why are these communities able to rebound so quickly? What’s the optimal time for bacterial growth?

Why do Bacterial Communities Rebound After Disinfection?
Modern cleaners are very effective in the elimination of most bacterial colonies on a variety of surfaces, but they are not able to completely eliminate the threat. High traffic areas collect bacteria almost immediately after disinfection and they may rebuild 30-40% of their previous population within hours.

What is the Optimal Time For Bacterial Growth?
Bacteria grows every second of every day. They are busy rebuilding their colony almost as soon as it is cleaned. Bacterial growth can not be prevented completely but properly disinfecting hospital surfaces will decrease infections dramatically.
Bacteria filled hands contaminate hospital surfaces and go on to spread from there. Bacteria will live and thrive anywhere in which a hospitable environment is present. Proper training and an increased dedication to frequent attention will dramatically decrease the occurrence of hospital acquired infections.