Understanding the resilience of dry surface biofilms to disinfection

Centeleghe, Isabella 2022. Understanding the resilience of dry surface biofilms to disinfection. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Dry surface biofilms (DSB) are present on healthcare surfaces throughout the world. They have been found to harbour pathogenic organisms, yet still the infection risk DSB pose remains unknown. Previous work has alluded to the resistance of DSB to disinfectants but there remains a gap in the literature. This thesis sought to understand the resistance of DSB with new strains of bacteria, including environmental isolates and explore the idea of how to combat DSB in the future. We combined laboratory experiments with surveys and interviews to gain a full understanding on the current knowledge and opinions of infection control measures in the working environment. We investigated DSB resistance to key disinfectant components readily used in the healthcare environment and identified the efficacy of commercially available wipe products on DSB. Of the species tested, Bacillus spp. were much less susceptible to disinfectants. Resistance of DSB over time was also investigated, which highlighted the resistance of environmental isolates from initial DSB formation. Although wipe products were successful in the removal of some DSB from surfaces, they failed to inhibit direct transfer of DSB. Staphylococcus aureus was most susceptible to both disinfectant treatment and wiping. The success in the formation of a dual species DSB has impact on future work into the investigation of multispecies biofilms, which should be considered as they are better representative of what occurs in the natural environment. Healthcare professionals provided essential insights into cleaning and disinfection practice. There is still a gap in knowledge of DSB amongst healthcare workers. It is clear that a greater deal of education is required to overcome current barriers. Our work has concluded that manufacturers should start focusing on combatting DSB alongside education into correct product usage, as this remains an issue.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Pharmacy
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	6 October 2022
Last Modified:	06 Oct 2022 13:29
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/153115

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