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.
Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC 20422, USA.
Maureen
M
Schultz
Janet
J
Gill
Sabiha
S
Zubairi
Ruth
R
Huber
Fred
F
Gordin
D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification; D016287:Computer Peripherals; D003428:Cross Infection; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D005658:Fungi / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D006801:Humans