What Is the Role of Mobile No-Touch Disinfection Technology in Optimizing Healthcare Environmental Hygiene?

Over the past decade, it has become widely recognized that effective and thorough cleaning of patient zone surfaces represents a critical component of horizontal healthcare-associated infection prevention. While liquid chemistries are well established as the most critically useful approach to surface disinfection, innovative no-touch disinfection technologies have evolved that complement many traditional cleaning activities. In order to clarify the potential clinical role of these technologies, a review of published studies was undertaken using a structured evidentiary hierarchy as proposed by McDonald and Arduino in 2013. While the in vitro capabilities and limitations of both ultraviolet and hydrogen peroxide vapor technologies have been quantified, clinical studies have yet to provide clear guidance for practitioners considering the use of such systems. On the basis of this review, recommendations to improve future clinical trials of patient zone environmental hygiene interventions were developed.