Study on the purification effect of a pediatric isolation bed on the air in general hospital wards

Abstract Background: Patients with acute infectious respiratory illness may emit bio-aerosols containing pathogens capable of infecting susceptible hosts, including other patients and healthcare workers. This study aimed to evaluate the purification effect of a pediatric isolation bed on aerosols and microorganisms in the air in experiment rooms and verify the purification efficiency in general wards. Methods: Experiments were carried out in two settings: one with isolation bed and the other with regular bed. Using a dust particle counter to discriminate particles sizes in the air and using Anderson’s six levels to discriminate S. albicans, the purification rate in the two rooms was evaluated. The concentration of cigarette particles(size 0.3–0.5 μm,0.5-1.0μm ) and S. albicans in the air was significantly decreased in the experimental room, indicating that the air was purified. Then detection the aerosol in the room to vilidaty the purification rate.Finally detection of aerosol and sedimentation bacteria in the air of general wards. Results: Isolation beds in demonstration ward have a purifying effect on both aerosols and sedimentation bacteria. Conclusions:Isolation bed can therefore be used in hospitals to reduce the risk of nosocomial infection and protect the health of doctors, patients, and visiting relatives.