From the Research
Fans are not necessarily prohibited in patient rooms for individuals with a history of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), but their use should adhere to specific infection control guidelines. The decision to use fans in these settings should consider the balance between infection control and patient comfort, particularly in warm environments where cooling can significantly improve patient well-being 1. Key considerations include ensuring the fan is clean, properly maintained, and positioned to avoid blowing air directly across wounds, invasive devices, or sterile fields. Regular cleaning and disinfection of fan surfaces are essential, following facility protocols with appropriate disinfectants effective against the specific MDRO 2.
The primary concern with using fans in rooms of patients with MDROs is the potential for dispersing dust, skin cells, and microorganisms into the air, thereby increasing the risk of environmental contamination 3. However, with proper precautions, the benefits of improved patient comfort may outweigh these risks. Healthcare facilities may have specific policies regarding fan use based on their infection control protocols, the specific MDRO involved, and the patient's clinical condition 4. Some facilities might restrict fans in rooms of patients with certain highly transmissible MDROs or during specific procedures.
It's also important to note that adherence to contact precautions and isolation protocols can vary significantly between facilities and countries, highlighting the need for standardized guidelines and consistent implementation 1. The variability in practices and definitions regarding contact precautions and isolation for MDROs underscores the complexity of managing these organisms in healthcare settings 5. Ultimately, the use of fans in patient rooms with MDRO history should be guided by a thorough risk assessment and adherence to established infection control principles.