Nightmare Bacteria
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
Recent media traffic about a “Nightmare Bacteria” have concerned some individuals with questions about potential exposure for laundry workers. The term “Nightmare Bacteria” is not referring to a new bacteria, but how some of our known microorganisms, such as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), are genetically expanding their resistance to the last known available antibiotic, Colistin.
As long as laundry personnel are following universal/standard precautions and wearing appropriate PPE when handling contaminated healthcare linen, you should not be at any increased risk of exposure to these microorganisms. Also, no changes need to occur in the standard wash process. Ensuring appropriate time, temperature, chemical, and agitation should continue to produce hygienically clean textiles.
