Laboratory evaluation of different disinfectants
Subramaniam, L.; Shriniwas; Bhujwala, R.A.
Indian Journal of Medical Research 81: 41-45
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5340 PMID: 3988327 Document Number: 264874
Eight disinfectants commonly used in Indian hospitals were subjected to the Kelsey-Sykes' capacity test. The test strains included Pseudomonas aeruginosa (NCTC 6749), Staphylococcus aureus (NCTC 4163), Proteus vulgaris (NCTC 4635) and Escherichia coli (NCTC 8196). The concentrations recommended by manufacturers were not effective in 50% of the preparations tested. The results of the study suggested that catheters, cystoscopes, endoscopes and other similar instruments should be kept for at least 3 h in a disinfectant containing 2% dialdehyde with sodium bicarbonate. Cheatle forceps, thermometers and other such instruments used repeatedly should be kept in 5% disinfectant containing hibitane (chlorhexidine gluconate), the disinfectant solution being changed every day. Floors, walls, furniture, bath-tubs, sinks, bed-pans, trolleys and similar equipment are to be washed with detergent and then disinfected with iodophors; carbolic acid, phenylphenol, xylenol can also be used for this purpose. These measures are suggested as a policy for use of disinfectants in Indian hospitals.