Factors increasing the risk of sink-associated infections
Short distance between the sink and patient bed |
Absence of barrier for preventing splash from sink |
Visible water splashes |
Lack of daily disinfection |
Use of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) for disinfection (compared to sodium hypochlorite) |
Structural factors of the sink |
Factors related to water splashes |
Shallow or narrow sink basin |
Drain located directly beneath the faucet |
Slow drainage |
Factors promoting biofilm formation |
Plastic traps |
Faucet aerators or flow regulators |
Rubber components in the sink |
Improper use of sinks by healthcare personnel |
Disposal of patient waste in sinks |
Disposal of nutrient-rich liquids or antibiotics in sinks |
Placement of patient-related or clean items near hand hygiene sinks |