Bacterial contamination of computer keyboards in a teaching hospital.
We tested 100 keyboards in 29 clinical areas for bacterial contamination. Ninety five were positive for microorganisms. Streptococcus, Clostridium perfringens, Enterococcus (including one vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus), Staphylococcus aureus, fungi, and gram-negative organisms were isolated. Computer equipment must be kept clean so it does not become another vehicle for transmission of pathogens to patients.
Schultz
Maureen
M
Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC 20422, USA.
Gill
Janet
J
Zubairi
Sabiha
S
Huber
Ruth
R
Gordin
Fred
F
D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification; D016287:Computer Peripherals; D003428:Cross Infection; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D005658:Fungi / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D006801:Humans