Implementation of Xenon Ultraviolet-C Disinfection Robot to Reduce Hospital Acquired Infections in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Population

Abstract

Topic Significance & Study Purpose/Background/Rationale: The Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) unit exceeded the national benchmark average of 3 hospital-acquired infections (HAI's) per month. The most common pathogen being Clostridium-difficile infection (CDI). CDI can develop due to treatment-related immunosuppression. CDI can be spread to others via spores that are shed in feces form an infected individual, which are capable of living on dry surfaces for months at a time. These spores are then transferred between surfaces and individuals, which can ultimately result in the spread of the infection. Given a highly immunosuppressed population, this cross-contamination in hospital rooms. Innovation was essential for changing outcomes and the implementation of a pulse Xenon ultraviolet-C disinfection robot (machine) was institute into the care of the HSCT population. The purpose of this project was to reduce rates and cost associated with hospital-acquired CDI and sustain utilization of the technology. Methods, Intervention, & Analysis: After discharge, each patient room was terminally cleaned by housekeeping staff. The HSCT program elected to take an additional step over and above and use a Xenon pulsed UV-C light machine to disinfect patient rooms and bathrooms in preparation for the next admission. The Xenex Germ-Zapping ® was selected upon a review of the evidence of UV-C light machines currently on the market by other hospitals and health systems. Such pulse Xenon UV-C light machine disinfects rooms by breaking down DNA molecular bonds to destroy the spores that live on dry surfaces and lead to the spread of CDI. Findings & Interpretation: After 3 months of use, the rate of HAI's have decreased to less than one per quarter. Reducing CDI in particular has resulted in decreased length of stay, decrease in re-hospitalization, laboratory testing and medications upwards of $13,000 per CDI. Furthermore, the business case for the use of this robot has proven successful, as initial cost of the machine was $105,000 including training. Discussion & Implications: Patient safety and infection prevention is the responsibility of all members of the healthcare team. The HSCT program successfully implemented a program where the nurses manage and operate the pulse Xenon UV-C light machine to disinfect rooms resulting in decrease hospital-acquired CDI.