A look at the critical role played by microbiological water testing in improving patient safety, and some key maintenance priorities for estates team to keep healthcare water systems running safely and hygienically.
It came to light in 2018 that BUPA’s residential care business had been fined £3 million following the death of an elderly resident after he contracted Legionnaires’ disease at one of its care homes in Essex. The fine was given because the company had failed to implement measures to control and monitor the care home’s hot and cold water systems. Today, easier access to rapid microbiological water testing, at no extra cost to traditional methods, should be enabling healthcare professionals to take action more quickly and help reduce Legionella risks.
Legionella control
Recorded deaths from Legionnaires’ disease are up to 100 per year, yet many industry professionals believe the actual figure is potentially higher due to the impact it has on patients with pre-existing conditions. Contracted by breathing in water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria, Legionnaires’ disease often proves fatal in very young, elderly, or immunocompromised (those with ongoing health issues such as diabetes or cancer) patients. Therefore, Legionella risks in any kind of healthcare facility – from large hospitals to small care homes – must be stringently managed and controlled.
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