Keyboards can harbor bacteria for up to 24 hours
Patient Safety Monitor Alert, April 13, 2005
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A new study suggests that bacteria can linger on a keyboard for up to 24 hours, which can lead to cross-contamination and infection. Both gloved and ungloved hands could pick up the bacteria, according to a cbsnews.com report.
Over-the-counter disinfectants tested were successful in killing the hardy bacteria, although shorter-acting sprays did not work as well on keyboard covers.
The best prevention remains washing your hands prior to patient contact. Basic hand-washing skills will kill the bacteria listed in the study.
To read the complete cbsnews.com report, click here.
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