TO EVALUATE THE DISINFECTANT HAZARD PROFILE IN A TERTIARY CARE GOVERNMENT TEACHING HOSPITAL, LUCKNOW

Dr. Sairaj Subhash Chodankar, *Dr. Nitin Dutt Bhardwaj, Brig. (Dr.) Pradeep Srivastava, Dr. Supriya Singh, Dr. Umesh Dhar Dubey, Dr. Moina Khan

ABSTRACT

Background - Disinfectants play a crucial role in preventing the transmission of infectious diseases within healthcare facilities, including tertiary care government hospitals. However, improper use or exposure to certain disinfectants may pose significant hazards to healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. Methodology – This study analysed the hazard profile of disinfectants used in a tertiary care government hospital in Lucknow, India, based on data from the Viennese Database for Disinfectants (WIDES Database). Result – In the study, we noted that out of the 13 disinfectants examined, 56% were classified as having a low hazard profile, 31% fell into the category of medium hazard profile, and 13% were considered to have a high hazard profile. Among these disinfectants, glutaraldehyde and peracetic acid were found to pose the highest risk of acute respiratory toxicity when inhaled. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid were identified as having the highest potential for causing irritation and corrosivity. Notably, glutaraldehyde exhibited the highest potential for allergic reactions, followed by quaternary ammonium compounds. Conclusion – This study contributes to evidence-based decision-making and enhanced safety measures in healthcare facilities. It helps the administrators to know about the Hazard profile of various Disinfectants used in the hospital. Furthermore, it will guide the administrators in decision-making and serve as a tool for selecting best disinfectants among all the available options in the healthcare sector.

Keywords: Disinfectants, hazard profile, WIDES Database, glutaraldehyde, peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide.