Kingston hospital tracks and tests mattresses for VRE
Association recognizes KGH for infection control measure
Thursday December 18, 2008 -- Natalie Miller
Kingston General Hospital (KGH) is receiving recognition for an infection control measure that involves testing mattresses for Vancomycin Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) and adjusting cleaning practices and tracking measures.

During an outbreak of VRE, as part of a thorough review to identify "potential reservoirs for the spread of infection," the hospital randomly sampled a mattress and found it tested positive for the bacteria.

The discovery "prompted a review of every mattress to ensure patient safety and demonstrate due diligence," the hospital says in a write-up about the infection control measure.

KGH's "Tracking and Testing Mattresses for Greater Infection Control" was one of 46 patient safety initiatives recognized by the Ontario Hospital Association in its "Patient Safety: Leading Practice in Ontario: Improvements, Ideas and Innovations 2008" booklet.

The hospital says as a result of the discovery, environmental services staff visually assessed and replaced mattresses as necessary.

"Alerts to the potential of VRE spread via mattresses prompted the review of the replacement process, current cleaning practices and the cleaning solution. Since research shows a link between mattresses and the spread of hospital-acquired bacteria, an assessment and tracking system for sampling and testing of VRE and other pathogens was established."

It involves inspecting and stretch-testing the top cover, bottom cover and foam and tracking the mattresses using a code attached to the various components of the mattresses. If any parts of the mattresses are replaced or discarded, KGH also keeps track.

In addition, the hospital made changes to cleaning practices and drying times, reviewed the cleaning solution used to disinfect mattresses between patients and began conducting assessments of mattresses after patients were discharged.

"The effective tracking of mattresses has given the hospital an improved ability to monitor the spread of some hospital-acquired bacteria."

If you have feedback on this article, e-mail natalie(at)axiomnews.ca or call the newsroom at 800-294-0051.