The Floor: A Hidden Risk in Fighting HAIs
Hospital floors are constantly exposed to pathogens tracked in by shoes, wheelchairs, beds, carts, devices, and even patient socks, often making their way directly to beds. Adding to the risk, freshly laundered mops, assumed to be clean and frequently handled without gloves—can become a significant source of cross-contamination.
The Financial Impact of HAIs
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Nearly 1.7 million HAIs occurred in U.S. hospitals, resulting in almost 99,000 deaths.
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HAIs add an average of $23,735 per infected patient.
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In total, HAIs cost hospitals $40.3 billion annually, accounting for 11% of total hospital spending.
Research Confirms the Risk
Studies show patient-room floors are frequently contaminated with HAI pathogens, including C. diff. Additional research found that 93% of laundered cloth and microfiber mops still carried viable microorganisms, highlighting the limitations of reusable cleaning tools.