Disinfection: gaps between recommended and actual practice

Basic practices on disinfection was surveyed in 6 hospitals using an observation and interview checklist. Two surveys were done, one pre-(first survey) and one post-intervention (second survey). The disinfection and sterilization policy of the Ministry of Health was not available in 66 (70.2%) and 12 (13%) of the units in the first and second survey respectively. In the second survey, staff in all the units washed disinfectant containers before refilling compared with 41.5% of the units in the first survey. Dilution of disinfectants not recommended was found to be used in the first survey. Storing cleaned and sterile items in disinfectants, using disinfectant as a substitute for sterilization of autoclavable items and not decontaminating spillages were some of the wrong practices observed. Considerable improvements were made in the second survey. Improper usage of disinfectants was also indicated by failure of the in-use test. Rate of failure of disinfectants in-use decreased from 11.6% in the first survey to 5.0% in the second survey. To ensure proper disinfection practices, a comprehensive training program on disinfection is required for nurses and attendants.