Rate of Microbial Contamination in Operation Theatres of Allied Hospital Faisalabad Before and After Fumigation

Abstract

An operation theatre serves as a critical facility within a hospital where surgical procedures are conducted under controlled conditions. It is imperative that this environment maintains stringent sterility and pathogen-free conditions to mitigate the risk of nosocomial infections among patients undergoing treatment. Despite meticulous sterilization protocols and stringent measures in place, the heightened microbial presence within the operation theatre can potentially lead to surgical site infections and complications, transcending all protective and fumigation efforts. Such contamination within the operation theatre poses a significant risk, often resulting in severe surgical site infections which can compromise patient outcomes. A quasi-experimental study was performed by collecting samples from operation theatres (OTs) of Allied hospital Faisalabad. Samples were taken before and after fumigation. Sampling include swabbing from surfaces of sites of operation theatres. Sterile cotton swabs moistened with normal saline were taken to operation theatres and rolled on the surfaces of operation tables, instrument trolleys, walls, OT lights, suction machines and anesthesia machines which are then packed and sealed and further processing performed in laboratory. A total of 96 swabs, 32 (33.33%) swabs were growth positive before fumigation and 13 (13.54%) after fumigation. Total reduction rate after fumigation was 19 (59.38%). Fumigation is effective but it is toxic. As the methodology involves use of toxic vapors of formalin and requires prolonged closure of the theatres up to 72 hours, it is difficult to perform on a regular and frequent basis. It is suggested that in order to improve the efficacy of the whole process, formaldehyde fumigation be replaced with newer methods i.e. fogging with hydrogen peracetic acid vapors.