Lesmes VIS, Ramírez OJG, Parrado YM, Hernández-Rodríguez P, Gomez AP. Characterization of hygiene habits and environments in children's care homes.
Rev Esc Enferm USP 2017;
51:e03264. [PMID:
29267734 DOI:
10.1590/s1980-220x2016042103264]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Identify the hygiene habits of children and caregivers in order to prevent and control infectious diseases in care environments in Bogotá, Colombia, as well as characterize the surface bacteria in these environments.
METHOD
Instruments were designed, validated and applied to evaluate healthy habits, with samples taken from surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, halls, mats, and tools in 230 locations. Th e isolated bacteria were classifi ed using automated methodologies.
RESULTS
A total of 699 bacteria were isolated, with the largest growth percentage found in kitchens (36%). Th ese results are contrary to what was observed, where most of the kitchens appeared to be clean. In the survey, 93% of the caregivers reported washing their hands before handling food, and 23% said they used personal protection items when handling food.
CONCLUSION
There is a need for monitoring and interventions in hygiene and care habits in environments that care for children.
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