Evaluation of disinfectants and wiping substrates combinations to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus on Formica coupons

Am J Infect Control. 2019 Apr;47(4):465-467. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.09.011. Epub 2018 Nov 16.

Abstract

Effective disinfection in healthcare facilities prevents healthcare-associated infections. This study evaluated the ability of Environmental Protection Agency-approved disinfectants (quaternary ammonium compound, QAC; sodium hypochlorite, and hydrogen peroxide) applied with 3 wiping substrates (microfiber, nonwoven, and cotton) to remove Staphylococcus aureus from Formica surfaces. All treatments reduced S aureus on Formica squares with the exception of QAC applied with cotton and QAC, nondisinfectant, and control applied with a nonwoven cloth. Sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide applied with cotton or microfiber, respectively, may be the best choice for disinfection of Formica surfaces in healthcare settings.

Keywords: Disinfectants; Formica; Healthcare-associated infections.

MeSH terms

  • Disinfectants / pharmacology*
  • Disinfection / methods*
  • Fomites / microbiology*
  • Hydrogen Peroxide / pharmacology
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds / pharmacology
  • Sodium Hypochlorite / pharmacology
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects*

Substances

  • Disinfectants
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Sodium Hypochlorite