Chapter 107 S. pseudintermedius is an opportunistic pathogen that is part of the normal flora of dogs and cats whereas S. aureus is not, although dogs and cats can acquire this pathogen from humans (see Chapter 100). Both S. pseudintermedius and S. aureus frequently are methicillin resistant; however, MRSP and MRSA strains are not more resistant to detergents or disinfectants, nor do they survive longer on contaminated surfaces than methicillin-susceptible strains. Contaminated surfaces are important sources of hand exposure to pathogens for veterinary personnel, increasing the chances that they may become infected themselves or transfer the infection to other patients. During 5 years of active monthly surveillance at the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center (Hoet et al, 2011), over 90% of all MRSP and MRSA strains in the dermatology service areas came from 10 major surfaces (Table 107-1). Similar surfaces have been reported in other studies to be “hot spots” of environmental contamination in veterinary hospitals (Heller et al, 2009; Weese et al, 2004). In addition to focusing on surfaces listed in the table, it is recommended that a staff member observe animal and human flow through the veterinary clinic to identify additional hot spots in the facility. TABLE 107-1 Contact Surfaces in Dermatology Service Areas That Frequently Are Contaminated with MRSP and MRSA *The screening included the doorknobs and an area up to 1 ft in radius from the door knobs, which are frequent areas of hand contact. †These are areas of the floor on which regular examination and interventions are performed on large dogs and nervous animals, instead of using the examination tables. ‡The screening only included the handles, levers, or wheels of the dispensers. • Remove all organic material (such as hair and dander) using paper towels. • Wash surfaces that are soiled (e.g., with blood, pus, sebum) using water and soap or detergent, rinse per product label, and dry before applying the disinfectant. Organic material must be removed; otherwise, the effectiveness of disinfectants may be compromised. • Anionic detergents (e.g., most laundry detergents) or soaps must be properly rinsed because they can inactivate these disinfectants, reducing their biocidal activity. • Generously apply disinfectant, saturating the entire surface and allowing 10 minutes wet contact time for maximum effect (unless otherwise specified on the product label). Because this practice may be difficult to achieve during regular clinic activities, the solution should be left to dry before the next use. If there is suspected contamination with MRSP or MRSA, a full 10 minutes of wet contact time is essential. Note that rewetting with disinfectant may be necessary to achieve 10 minutes of wet contact time. Contact surfaces should be cleaned once daily at least.
Disinfection of Environments Contaminated by Staphylococcal Pathogens
MRSP and MRSA
Surfaces Commonly Contaminated by Staphylococci
Human Contact Surfaces
Animal Contact Surfaces
Doors*
Gurneys or carts
Computers, keyboards, and mice
Examination tables
Drawer handles on storage cabinets
Areas of the floor where animals are examined†
Paper towel and alcohol gel dispensers‡
Water bowls and muzzles
Microscope knobs, fax and telephone keypads, otoscope handles, examination light handles
Cages
Selection and Proper Use of Disinfectants for Specific Surfaces
Gurneys, Examination Tables, and General Surfaces
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Disinfection of Environments Contaminated by Staphylococcal Pathogens
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