| The purpose of this study was to determine whether a daily 12-hour advanced oxidation treatment, using a photohydroionization reactor, significantly reduced microbiological populations in the air and on surfaces in an applied health care setting. Microorganisms found in health care facilities have been linked to disease including asthma, body, lung, and skin infections. The conceptual framework includes development of the impact of microbial organisms on population health as well as treatment options. Little data exists on the efficacy of advanced oxidation treatment in the health care setting. The research questions addressed whether the intervention reduced mold in the air and Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas species on contact surfaces. The study used an experimental design, with samples collected on Day 0 for the control and Days 5, 10, 20, and 30 of the intervention. Validated cultural media was used to measure microbiological levels in the building. Results of multiple regression models showed a statistically significant relationship (p <.05) between advanced oxidation treatment and the reduction of mold, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas species. The treatment resulted in greater than 90% reductions in mold, MRSA, and Staphylococcus aureus in the measured areas. Implications for positive social change include providing data on best practices for building engineers, infection control, and occupational health professionals to help them make health care facilities safer for susceptible populations, thus reducing the spread of infectious diseases and lowering heath care costs overall. |
