Elimination of Klebsiella pneumoniae NDM from the air and selected surfaces in hospital using radiant catalytic ionization

Due to increasing antibiotic resistance Klebsiella pneumoniae is a serious threat for the hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was the assessment of radiant catalytic ionization (RCI) efficacy on K. pneumoniae reduction in the air and on selected surfaces. Four K. pneumoniae NDM and ESBLs‐producing strains were included in the study. Three types of surface were tested: cotton‐polyester, terry and PVC. It was found that RCI significantly reduced the number of bacteria from all types of surface (terry: 0·56–1·22 log CFU m², cotton‐polyester: 2·15–3·71 log CFU per m², PVC: 4·45–4·92 log CFU per m²) as well as from the air (1·80 log CFU per m³). The RCI technology may be a useful disinfection method in hospitals. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Microbial contamination of air and surfaces in hospitals play an important role in healthcare‐associated infections. The aim was the assessment of Klebsiella pneumoniae elimination using radiant catalytic ionization (RCI). K. pneumoniae are aetiological agent of nosocomial infections, such as: pneumonia, infections of urinary tract, blood, e.t.c. The strains producing the New Delhi metallo‐β‐lactamases are one of the greatest epidemiological threat. The use of RCI eliminate the tested bacteria from the hospital environment, but can also be effective in food processing plants or public facilities, ensuring the safety of people and products. This research is scarce in references and has a large innovation and application potential.