Patient safety and infection control are critical for hospitals and healthcare providers to produce the best possible outcomes for patients and avoid preventable infections and errors. This list examines technology and products designed to disinfect medical instruments and operating rooms, reduce preventable complications, stop the spread of germs and make surgery safer for patients.
The products featured here include UV disinfectants, catheters and central lines, disinfectants and detergents, hand hygiene products, health technology, reprocessing, products for surgical procedures and textiles among other items designed for infection control.
The Becker's Healthcare editorial team developed this list based on nominations and internal research. Companies do not pay and cannot pay for inclusion on this list. Products are listed in alphabetical order by category.
Contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com with questions or comments on this list.
UV disinfection
AUVS Small Device Disinfection (Advanced Ultra-Violet Systems). The UV Box uses Advanced Ultra-Violet Systems' Pentagon-selected Photon Trap Technology to disinfect small mobile and portable devices in less than a minute. The AUVS UV box is top rated by ECRI Institute, has proven efficacy and is lab tested. This affordable device is easy to use and can be implemented anywhere as part of any facility's infection prevention strategy.
Germicidal UV-C lighting (Steril-Aire). Germicidal UV-C lighting is installed in the air handling units of HVAC systems and kills 99.9 percent of biofilm on the coil lighting. As a result, the air flowing through the hospital is 99.9 percent germ free and eliminates healthcare-acquired infections. Sterile-Aire's emitters are good for 9,000 hours, meaning they must be changed annually.
HealthySole (Detecto). HealthySole is a UV-C product designed to kill 99.99 percent of exposed microorganisms on the bottom of healthcare workers' shoes. The device can kill microorganisms such as bacterial and viral pathogens in eight seconds and is effective against fungi and bacterial spores.
Helios (Surfacide). Helios is a patented automated triple-emitter UV-C hard-surface detection solution. The system is designed to eradicate multidrug-resistant organisms including C. difficile, MRSA and Acinetobacter with a single cycle.
Klaran (Crystal IS). Klaran UV-C LEDs use aluminum nitrate technology to emit germicidal energy that kills pathogenic bacteria, viruses and microorganisms. The technology is available as portable and handheld devices to help automate and standardize manual disinfection tasks.
LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots (Xenex). Xenex's LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots use pulsed xenon, an inert gas, to produce germicidal UV-C light. The robots, which can be operated by a hospital's cleaning team, eliminate microscopic pathogens that may be left in a patient room after manual cleaning.
Optimum-UV Enlight System (Clorox Healthcare). The Clorox Healthcare Optimum-UV Enlight System is an all-in-one solution providing surface treatment enhanced by UV-C technology to kill more than 30 pathogens, including C. difficile spores and MRSA. The user-friendly system was designed with advanced data collection and reporting capabilities to help healthcare facilities maximize device usage and gain process efficiency.
PathO3Gen Footwear Sanitizing Station (Green Earth Medical Solutions). PathO3Gen Footwear Sanitizing Station is the first and only UV-C footwear sanitizing system that utilizes its patented disruptive and proactive Solestice 3/15 Technology to kill pathogens by penetrating and destroying the outer walls and DNA of 99.9 percent of the most deadly pathogens and superbugs.
UV Cleaning Systems (UV Cleaning Systems Inc.). UV Cleaning Systems is the next generation of economically priced UV-C devices. The system delivers an automatic, calculated dose of UV-C energy to the treatment area using technology to measure the efficiency of the emitter output and administer a lethal level of germ-killing ultraviolet C that allows the M20 to disinfect large areas in less time.
Catheters and central lines
3M Curos Tips Disinfecting Cap Strip for Male Luers (3M). 3M's Curos Tips Disinfecting Cap Strip for Male Luers is intended to decrease contamination of the IV line, disinfecting in one minute and protecting male luers for up to seven days. The product meets the 2016 Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice for add-on devices.
3M Curos Stopper Disinfecting Cap for Open Female Luers. Containing 70 percent isopropyl alcohol, 3M's Curos Stopper Disinfecting Cap for Open Female Luers is intended to protect against microorganisms often associated with CLABSI. The Curos Stopper cap's red color supports compliance verification and measurement.
3M Curos Disinfecting Port Protectors (3M). The 3M Curos Disinfecting Port Protectors achieved a 99.99 percent reduction of six microbes often connected with a central line-associated bloodstream infection. The port protectors, which each hold a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol solution, are designed to disinfect needleless connectors, male luers and open female luers.
3M Tegaderm CHG Chlorhexidine Gluconate IV Securement Dressing (3M). 3M's Tegaderm CHG Chlorhexidine Gluconate IV Securement Dressing decreases catheter-related bloodstream infections and vascular catheter colonization. The dressing offers continuous antimicrobial protection via the integrated chlorhexidine gluconate gel pad.
3M PICC / CVC Securement Device + Tegaderm CHG Chlorhexidine Gluconate IV Securement Dressing (3M). 3M's PICC / CVC Securement Device secures an IV without sutures using silicone adhesives. The Tegaderm CHG Chlorhexidine Gluconate IV Securement Dressing is the sole cleared transparent dressing that decreases catheter-related bloodstream infections and offers up to 10 days of antimicrobial protection.
Antimicrobial PICC Line Covers (Care+Wear). Care+Wear's stretchy, antimicrobial fabric covers help keep peripherally inserted central catheter lines secure and prevent dislodgement, which is a leading cause of infection in patients with PICC lines. The covers also contain a mesh window, which allows healthcare providers to monitor the site for leakage or infection.
ClearGuard HD Antimicrobial Barrier Cap (Pursuit Vascular). The ClearGuard HD Antimicrobial Barrier Cap is clinically shown to significantly reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients using central venous catheters. The device is designed to kill infection-causing bacteria inside a long-term hemodialysis catheter.
Duette Dual Balloon Urinary Catheter (Poiesis Medical). The Duette indwelling urinary catheter is the first catheter clinically designed to reduce bladder wall damage and increase fluid removal. Two peer-reviewed clinical trials demonstrated the catheter's superiority over other devices and found it sustained lower CAUTI rates during a two-year period.
POWERWAND (Access Scientific). The WAND family of products is designed to prevent hospital-acquired infections and protect both patients and providers. The Powerwand midline with Chronoflex C has more than 23,000 catheter days of published usage with no bloodstream infections, which outperforms other midlines on the market.
Readycleanse (Medline Industries). Readycleanse is specially designed for comprehensive metal and perineal care to reduce the risk of developing a CAUTI. Medline's five-cloth cleansing protocol follows nursing best practices for a compliance-driven, standardized approach for daily care of the Foley catheterized patient.
Disinfectants and detergents
3M C. diff Solution Tablets (3M). 3M C. diff Solution Tablets, intended to be dissolved in water, serve as an alternative disinfecting method to bleach and peracetic acid disinfectants. The tablets are EPA-registered to be effective against norovirus and kill C. diff spores.
AP-4 (Altapure). Altapure's AP-4 high-level disinfection system is a high performance device designed to meet the terminal cleaning demands of the critical care hospital environment. AP-4 achieves a true 6 Log elimination of pathogenic bioburden and includes Altapure's patented ultrasonically generated aerosol delivery. No post wipe-down is necessary and the room is available for immediate occupation after applying the system.
BioBlast Disinfectant (Aquaox; BioBlasting). BioBlast Disinfectant is a 275 ppm hypochlorous acid product. The nontoxic disinfectant is designed to eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi and mold, and has EPA-registered kill claims for a variety of single-celled microorganisms.
Bleach Germicidal Wipes (Clorox Healthcare). Clorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal Wipes kill 58 microorganisms, including C. difficile spores, in three minutes or less. The product also has claims for MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and other common causes of healthcare-associated infections. Extended use in healthcare facilities can improve surface capability, and the wipes leave less residue than other disinfectant wipes.
BruTabs (BHC). BruTabs are effervescent disinfectant sanitizer tablets, effective against C. difficile spores, hepatitis B, norovirus and Canine parvovirus. The tablets sanitize common areas and surfaces in medical, dental and long-term care environments.
EM360 Electrostatic Spray System (E-Mist Innovations). E-Mist is dedicated to infection prevention and control. Founded on a legacy of electrostatic science and technology, the E-Mist Infection Control System and Process complements existing disinfection application methods. It is a mobile, touchless, cordless and environmentally friendly surface disinfectant.
Fuzion Cleaner Disinfectant (Clorox Healthcare). Fuzion is a next-generation bleach disinfectant that is effective against tough-to-kill pathogens like C. difficile spores. The low-residue formula kills 53 microorganisms in two minutes or less.
Halo Total-Room Disinfection System (Halosil International). The Halo Disinfection System is a total-room disinfection system designed to kill 99.9999 percent of C. difficile spores throughout the entire room. The product uses proprietary 5 percent hydrogen peroxide solution with 0.01 percent ionic silver processed through the fogging system to create a dry mist that disinfects all surfaces and is effective against viruses, bacteria, mold and fungi.
Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner Disinfectants (Clorox Healthcare). Clorox Healthcare Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner Disinfectant offers the fastest non-bleach disinfecting times available for 40-plus microorganisms, including 13 antibiotic-resistant ones. The non-corrosive disinfectant is formulated for superior patient and staff comfort with no harsh chemical fumes or odors.
Indigo-Clean (Indigo-Clean). Indigo-Clean is a continuous environmental disinfection technology which is patented and proven to kill harmful bacteria linked to hospital acquired infections, such as MRSA and C. difficile. Indigo-Clean is a ceiling light fixture that uses a wavelength of 405nm to kill harmful bacteria in the air and on hard and soft surfaces.
Micro-Kill One Germicidal Alcohol Wipes (Medline Industries). Micro-Kill One Germicidal Alcohol Wipes are durable, low-lint polypropylene cloths that include a quaternary ammonium and alcohol solution. The wipes are designed to kill 25 microorganisms within one minute, including gram-positive, gram-negative and multidrug-resistant bacteria.
NOROxyCdiff (PreVasive). NOROxyCdiff is an EPA-registered C. difficile sporicide with a two-minute contact time to eliminate C. diff spores. The device can be applied on all surfaces without risking damage, bleaching or corrosion. People can be in the room without personal protection equipment when using the spray, and when applied with the Xcel Disposable MicroFiber Cloths, it requires 25 to 30 percent less liquid to fully saturate a canister.
Oxivir TB (Diversey). Oxivir TB cleans, disinfects and deodorizes hard, nonporous inanimate hospital or medical surfaces in one step without rinsing. The disinfectant works in 60 seconds and is designed to kill MRSA and norovirus.
Sani-Cloth HB (PDI). The Sani-Cloth HB Germicidal Disposable Wipe is intended to clean and disinfect nonporous environmental surfaces in healthcare facilities. The product, which is an EPA-registered low-level disinfectant, has proven effective against 100-plus microorganisms in 10 minutes.
Sani-Cloth Bleach (PDI). Designed to disinfect areas rife with C. difficile spores and norovirus, the Sani-Cloth Bleach Germicidal Disposable Wipe is effective against 50 microorganisms in four minutes. The product's formula is an EPA-registered intermediate-level disinfectant (1:10 sodium hypochlorite).
Sani-Cloth Plus (PDI). The Sani-Cloth Plus Germicidal Disposable Wipe is intended for use in alternate care settings, such as a physician's office. The wipes are effective against 16 microorganisms in three minutes and are offered in various sizes and formats dependent on facility need.
Hand Hygiene
AeroScout (Stanley Healthcare). The AeroScout solution features electronic devices embedded in a facility's soap or hand sanitizer dispensers that wirelessly connect with radiofrequency identification badges worn by staff members. The system automatically tracks when staff members wash their hands and collects the information via the hospital's Wi-Fi network, allowing leaders to review hand hygiene compliance data in real time.
Alcare Plus Antiseptic Handrub (SC Johnson Professional). Alcare Plus Antiseptic Handrub is a foamed, alcohol-based surgical scrub and hand rinse for healthcare personnel. The rub has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial action to fight against pathogenic microorganisms. The formulation has emollients for high-frequency professional use.
BioVigil Solution (BioVigil). BioVigil aims to ensure healthcare providers reach and maintain hand hygiene compliance with its patented technology, which helps hospitals sustain 97 percent compliance and reduce healthcare-acquired infections. The BioVigil Data Suite gives hospital administrators actionable insights for optimizing workflow and improving outcomes.
DebMed Electronic Hand Hygiene Monitoring System (SC Johnson Professional). The DebMed Monitoring System is designed to monitor hand hygiene compliance based on the WHO 5 Moments for hand hygiene and CDC guidelines. This monitoring system provides clinicians with real-time data 24/7/365 and is able to capture 100% of all hand hygiene activities through wireless technology inside SC Johnson Professional’s dispensers, at the point of care, or next to any existing dispenser. The DebMed Electronic Hand Hygiene Compliance System has been peer-reviewed in several studies, and is proven to be as accurate as video monitoring and significantly more accurate than direct observation. The solution also provides clinicians with resources to help educate staff on hand hygiene best practices and patient safety.
Fully Textured Single-Use Gloves (SW Safety Solutions). SW Safety Solutions' fully textured single-use gloves are designed to improve handling of smooth or slippery surfaces and small components. The gloves include ActivAloe, an exclusive form of aloe manufactured with a patented process to help retain the skin's natural health benefits. The gloves also include Hydrex, a moisture management technology.
HyGreen (HyGreen). The HyGreen Hand Hygiene Recording and Reminding System is a comprehensive tool to monitor hand hygiene protocol adherence. The system is designed to remind healthcare workers to wash their hands between every patient and produce comprehensive hand hygiene reporting.
Marly Skin Guard (Marly Products). Offered through Sanitis Global, Medline and Safety Basics, Marly Skin Guard is a long-lasting protective skin barrier that resides in the top layer of the skin to provide four hours of continuous protection against chemicals and irritants, including solvents, acids, surgical cement and pesticides.
Purell Healthy Soap with Clean Release (Gojo). The Clean Release technology is designed to boost soap performance with a surfactant system that reaches deep into the skin's cracks and crevices to remove more dirt and germs than regular soap. Formulated for dry and sensitive skin, the soaps are the greenest Gojo offers. Their 90 percent bio-based content is well above the 64 percent standard for bio-based handwashes.
SafeHands Sanitizer (safeHands). Founded by physicians, safeHands is an alcohol-free foaming hand sanitizer with benzalkonium chloride as the main active ingredient. The sanitizer is designed to kill 99.99 percent of germs and moisturize the skin while sanitizing.
Sani-Hands (PDI). Sani-Hands is a hand hygiene solution designed for those who are unable to get out of bed to wash their hands. Composed of 70 percent ethyl alcohol, the product is clinically proven to kill 99.99 percent of germs and is offered in various formats dependent on facility preferences.
SemperShield Nitrile (Sempermed). SemperShield Nitrile powder-free exam gloves are used in high-risk situations, with an extended cuff to protect the wrist and lower forearm. The textured surface promotes grip security without compromising sensitivity of touch, and the gloves are safe for use with chemotherapy drugs.
SwipeSense Platform (SwipeSense). SwipeSense Platform is designed to monitor core hand hygiene metrics in one centralized location. The technology collects data points and delivers insights to clinicians, administrators and staff about hand hygiene in an effort to eliminate preventable medical errors.
Zylast (Innovative BioDefense). Sanitis Global distributes Innovative BioDefense's Zylast products are clinically proven to provide efficacy against germs that ordinary hand sanitizers don't, with six hours of persistence. Zylast is a foaming soap, antiseptic lotion, alcohol-based antiseptic and surgical scrub.
Health technology
ATP Cleaning Verification System (Hygiena). Hygiena's ATP cleaning verification system delivers instant feedback on surface cleanliness to improve cleaning programs and reduce environmental contamination.
CenTrak Enterprise Location Services (CenTrak). CenTrak aims to improve operational efficiency and quality of care with its Enterprise Location Services product, which supports high-velocity updates across a healthcare enterprise. Alongside the company's Clinical-Grade Visibility technology, CenTrak Enterprise Location Services has 850 healthcare installations, providing hospital leaders with big data to make smart decisions for patients and staff to improve care quality.
Disposable protective covers (Healthmark). Healthmark's disposable protective covers are designed to keep personal devices safe and germ-free. The company offers disposable zip-lock plastic sleeves for phones and tablets, as well as hygienic keyboard covers to protect against pollution or contamination from germs and bacteria.
LifeShield Screen Protector (Spyder Digital Research). The LifeShield Screen Protector is the only EPA-registered and FDA-listed antimicrobial screen protector with Clorox certification as a bleach- and peroxide-resistant product. The screen protector features an embedded antimicrobial agent maintaining full four-log efficiency for at least 10 years.
Medigenic Medical Mice and Keyboards (Cycom). Medigenic Medical Mice and Keyboards are designed to prevent and control hospital-acquired infections. The equipment is designed with smooth, tight-fitting, easy-to-clean surfaces and includes antibacterial plastic housing. The mice and keyboards can be cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectant.
MedMined Surveillance Advisor (BD). BD's MedMined Surveillance Advisor is a patented data mining surveillance solution. The system identifies statistically significant and clinically relevant pathogen changes to pinpoint emerging infection trends within a hospital or specific unit and facilitate the early detection of possible clusters and outbreaks.
RAPID Reader System (PathogenALERT). PathogenALERT's RAPID Reader System is an onsite, automated, rapid airborne pathogen detection system, continuously sampling and monitoring air. The system can produce more than 1,000 air samples per week for specific pathogens and provides real-time, cloud-based, laboratory quality results via text alerts or emails.
POC Advisor (Wolters Kluwer Health). POC Advisor is a clinical intelligence platform from Wolters Kluwer that aggregates, normalizes and analyzes patient data from disparate clinical systems. The technology is designed to drive early detection with predictive accuracy. There are hundreds of rules built into the platform to account for comorbidities and medication abnormalities.
Robotic IV Insourcing Solution (Omnicell). Omnicell's Robotic IV Insourcing Solution is an automated compounding robot that prepares ready-to-administer medication doses. The system eliminates the need for manual compounding, thereby preventing common forms of contamination.
The Rothman Index (PeraHealth). The Rothman Index translates EHR data into a health score that represents a patient's overall condition. The index provides score updates in real time throughout the patient's entire hospital stay.
TheraDoc Infection Control Assistant (TheraDoc). TheraDoc Infection Control Assistant is designed to help healthcare organizations prevent hospital-acquired infections. The technology's customizable application can help providers identify and confirm HAIs in real time, speed up interventions, track organism resistance, and provide continuous surveillance, alerts and timely analysis of infections.
PeraAnalytics (PeraHealth). PeraAnalytics is a retrospective analytics platform that provides data visualizations to track health outcomes over time. The platform contains insights into unexpected events and root cause analysis capabilities for more than 20 predetermined patient populations.
PeraTrend (PeraHealth). PeraTrend is powered by PeraHealth's Rothman Index and offers a visual dashboard of a patient's condition in real time. The technology can be integrated into a provider's EHR or accessed online.
PURELL SMARTLINK Electronic Monitoring Solutions (GOJO). PURELL SMARTLINK Electronic Monitoring Solutions includes five platforms that automate and standardize hand hygiene monitoring. The Activity Monitoring System tracks soap and sanitizer dispenser activations for real-time performance metrics, while the Technology Partner Network platform allows healthcare facilities to leverage their existing real-time locating systems for person-specific hand hygiene monitoring. The solution also provides clinician-based support and a mobile application for electronic collation of hand hygiene and personal protective equipment observations.
Sentri7 (Wolters Kluwer). A real-time clinical surveillance platform, Sentri7 is designed to improve infection prevention workflows. The platform offers automated EMR data aggregation, sends clinicians evidence-based alerts and assesses outcomes to deliver continuous care delivery improvement.
VigiLanz Platform (VigiLanz). The VigiLanz Dynamic Infection Control Monitor is a real-time automated monitoring system that works with a healthcare organization's EHR to alert decision-makers of potential infections, drug mismatches, organism clusters, and conditions of concern and reportable infections. With customizable rule engines, the technology constantly monitors all patient records to send alerts in real time. The technology earned 2019 Category Leader designation from KLAS Research, alongside VigiLanz's Dynamic PharmacoVigilance and Antimicrobial Stewardship products.
Reprocessing
CartWashCheck (Healthmark). CartWashCheck is a test administered in the area of a room that is the most difficult to clean to determine whether the cart washers are effective. The test is placed on a surface furthest from the washer jets, and its black ink will wash away if water makes contact, which indicates proper mechanical action. The test can also gauge whether the water reaches target temperatures.
Endozime AW Triple Plus with APA (Ruhof). Endozime AW Triple Plus is a formulation of protease, amylase, lipase, carbohydrase and proprietary enzymes with advanced proteolytic action designed to remove bioburden from surgical instruments. The product is also a rust inhibitor and is recommended for reprocessing of all instruments, including delicate instruments and those with hard-to-reach surfaces.
Pinnacle Monitor for Automated Enzymatic Cleaning (Serim Research). The Pinnacle Monitor for Automated Enzymatic Cleaning is a cleaning verification test designed to monitor all factors critical to medical instrument cleaning, including enzymatic concentration and activity, wash cycle time, wash cycle temperature and mechanical action. The test can be used in both washer-disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners.
ProEZ Foam Ready-to-Use Foaming Enzymatic Spray (Certol International). The ProEZ foam ready-to-use foaming enzymatic spray starts the cleaning process at the point of use to prevent dried soils on surgical tools. Product testing shows anti-corrosive protection and wetting power during overnight application in areas such as labor and delivery, and its four-enzyme formula dissolves tough soils, including those in orthopedic cases.
Pure LandingPad Protective Surface Liner (Pure Processing). The Pure LandingPad provides a soft surface to cushion endoscopes and other delicate devices in preparation for pre-cleaning. The pads don't absorb liquids and have perforations for easy drainage.
Single-Use / Disposable Cleaning Brushes (PriMed). PriMed's single-use disposable cleaning brushes were developed to optimize scrubbing action for endoscopes. The brush is designed with a distal end to minimize wear on the endoscope's channel and can brush in a push or pull cleaning mode.
Surgistain (Ruhof). Surgistain is a revitalizing solution for removing rust, pitting, stains and corrosion from stainless steel surgical instruments. Surgistain can help maintain the life and efficiency of surgical instruments with routine use. When used in conjunction with Ruhof enzymatic cleaners, the solution can restore an instrument's original finish as well as loosen box-locks and joints.
TOSI (Healthmark). TOSI washer test is designed as a repeatable and reliable method for evaluating an automated instrument washer's cleaning effectiveness. The routine test can help healthcare providers make sure instrument washers are performing consistently and effectively.
Tray Belts (Cygnus Medical). The Tray Belts are designed to protect wrapped trays from external damage during sterilization, storage and transportation. The belts provide a cushioned barrier from sharp edges that could rip or tear the sterile wrapping, and they can prevent abrasion marks and damage from dragging the wrapped tray.
Surgical
Alexis O Wound Protector/Retractor (Applied Medical). Alexis wound protractor/retractors provide 360 degrees of circumferential, atraumatic retraction. The protractor/retractors maintain moisture at the incision site and reduce superficial surgical site infections after colorectal surgeries. With its self-retaining design, Alexis allows hands-free access to the operative site to facilitate specimen removal. Clinical evidence published in 2018 showed the Alexis wound protector/retractor lowered incisional surgical site infection in pancreaticoduodenectomy procedures by 52 percent.
Dermabond Mini Topical Skin Adhesive (Ethicon). Dermabond Mini is a topical skin adhesive designed for healthcare professionals. The product helps maintain barrier and wound closure integrity through a microbial barrier with 99 percent effectiveness for 72 hours in vitro.
Prevantics (PDI). Prevantics is a skin antiseptic comprising chlorhexidine gluconate and isopropyl alcohol. The product, available as a swab, swabstick or maxi swabstick, is also compliant with evidence-based recommendations from numerous healthcare organizations, including the Joint Commission, CDC and Infectious Diseases Society of America.
Situate Detection System (Medtronic). The Situate Detection System eliminates retained sponge incidents in the operating room. The system is a proprietary, clinically proven detection technology developed as an adjunct to manual counting to overcome the difficulty of finding surgical sponges in vivo and in the surrounding OR.
SurgiCount Safety-Sponge System (Stryker). Stryker's SurgiCount Safety-Sponge System helps clinicians automatically track surgical sponge use in the OR to reduce the chance of a retained surgical item. The SurgiCount Tablet electronically accounts for every surgical sponge, which each contains a uniquely coded tag for tracking purposes. The SurgiCount has now been implemented at more than 550 hospitals in the U.S.
OR Turnover Kits (Xodus Medical). The prepackaged OR Turnover Kits include arm board covers, arm board straps, a patient lift sheet, an absorbent table cover, a mop head and bags, including a biohazard bag. The kits are designed to prevent cross contamination in the operating room.
Steriset Sterilization Containers (Medline). The full Steriset Sterilization Containers have colored lids with customized handles and ID labels to organization instruments by procedure to promote best-practice standards and improve efficiency. The containers can handle full instrumentation for major cases.
Textiles
CleanPatch (Surface Medical). CleanPatch is a medical surface repair patch for hospital beds and stretchers that restores damaged mattresses to a hygienic state. The patch has been proven effective by independent infection prevention professionals and can be cleaned by a variety of hospital disinfectants.
Cupron Medical Textiles (Cupron). Cupron Medical Textiles embed copper compounds in polymers, preventing the technology from rubbing off. The product has shown reduced hospital-associated infections and HAI-related events, and has been in use for more than 1 million patient days as of September 2017. A November 2018 study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection found Cupron's copper-infused patient gowns, pillowcases and other materials helped decrease infection rates at six hospitals owned by Norfolk, Va.-based Sentara Healthcare.
Fantex Disposable Curtains (Statina). Statina's Fantex Disposable Curtains offer an alternative to reusable curtains that require washing. Made from non-oven polypropylene and treated with Hydro4, disposable curtains are proven to kill bacteria and improve infection control at healthcare facilities and reduce MRSA and C. difficile spores.
IsoDoorCaddy (Isolation Door Caddy). The IsoDoorCaddy is designed to help reduce healthcare-acquired infections. The durable mesh, over-the-door isolation caddy accommodates personal protective equipment storage, and its material is infused with Microban to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
LifeThreads Antimicrobial Textiles-Classic Collection (LifeThreads). LifeThreads scrubs are engineered with advanced technologies designed to inhibit the growth of unwanted bacteria directly on the fabric surface. The fabrics are treated with an EPA-registered antimicrobial active ingredient and binding agents to protect the fabric from pathogens found in clinical settings while at the same time blocking fluids and suppressing unwanted odors. LifeThreads was awarded a three-year group purchasing agreement with Premier in March 2018.
On The Right Track Systems from On The Right Track (New York City). On The Right Track Systems is the only manufacturer of replaceable cubicle curtains that offers a 100 percent fully recyclable chemical-free curtain. Safer for the patient and the hospital staff, On The Right Track is the only replaceable curtain that is certified by the Healthier Hospitals organization. The entire curtain can be installed or removed in seconds.
PurThread (PurThread Technologies). PurThread Technologies embeds a proprietary blend of EPA-registered recycled silver salts into its core fiber to protect fabric from microbial contamination and reduce odor-causing bacteria, mold, mildew and fungus. The fabric's benefits don't wear off or wash away, and are designed to look and feel like cotton. In early 2018, PurThread secured a distribution agreement with Mitsui USA in Japan and forged a collaboration with Cotton Inc.
SilvaClean® (Applied Silver). SilvaClean is a smart patented technology platform that infuses textiles with EPA-approved silver ion based SilvaClean chemistry during the laundry rinse cycle. SilvaClean’s silver ions bond with fabrics to residually kill pathogens, mold and mildew and reduce post-laundry contamination (e.g. in storage, during handling and in use). The product is in use in multiple locations as a practical inexpensive way to aid in Infection Control efforts and requires no additional training or change in linen inventory. A 2016 study published in the American Journal of Infection Control demonstrated that SilvaClean treated linens had reduced microbial bioburden by over 85% in three community hospitals. Medline is the exclusive distributor of Applied Silver’s SilvaClean service to healthcare facilities in the United States and Canada.
Surgical Light Drape (American Surgical Specialties Company). The Surgical Light Drape is an inexpensive, crystal clear, single patient use, disposable sterile barrier drape for the overhead surgical lights in the operating room. This sterile barrier protection prevents contamination of the sterile field should any body fluids or debris fly up, strike the lights and fall back onto the sterile field. Also, because the lights are covered, patient to patient cross contamination is prevented so there is never a question "are these lights clean?"
X-Static (Noble Biomaterials). X-Static antimicrobial technology aims to provide healthcare professionals with comfortable and wearable fabrics that also reduce bacteria and keep garments odor free. The fabric has 99.9 percent metallic silver bonded to the surface for performance-enhancing benefits. X-Static products include lab coats, scrubs and other soft surfaces. The International Organization for Standardization granted Noble accreditation for its updated 2015 standards.
Other
Baxdela (Melinta Therapeutics). Baxdela is an anionic fluoroquinolone antibiotic. The drug demonstrates in vitro and clinical activity against gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In a phase III clinical trial completed in 2018, Baxdela met all key primary and secondary endpoints and successfully eradicated key respiratory pathogens at rates comparable to moxifloxacin.
Bio Oxygen (Bio Oxygen Australia). Bio Oxygen is an all-natural air treatment system that sterilizes the air and every surface the air touches. Laboratory evidence proves Bio Oxygen eliminates 99 percent of bacteria, viruses and odors. The Bio Oxygen process kills the organisms that cause odors, such as bacteria, fungus, mold, mildew, spores and viruses.
BIOlogical (HealthFirst). BIOlogical is a spores-testing kit allowing healthcare providers to mail in tests weekly for results. The system is combined with a cloud-based process management technology to send reminders about testing to remain compliant. Its OnTraq smart automation tracking and reporting system gives access to a paperless archive and sends results via email.
CareBag (Cleanis). CareBag is a bedpan liner with an absorbent GelMax pad designed to trap liquids upon first contact. When the pad is sealed, it reduces the risk of spills, splashes and odors as well as protects the bedpan and avoids soiling and contamination.
Cupron Enhanced EOS Surfaces (EOScu). EOScu's Cupron Enhanced EOS Surfaces are Preventive|Biocidal Surfaces, serving as the only synthetic hard surface with EPA registration for public health claims. The product, featuring Cupron's copper technology, continuously kills more than 99.9 percent of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria within two hours of exposure, and has reduced HAIs and HAI-related events.
CuVerro Bactericidal Copper Products (Olin Brass). CuVerro is a solid surface with a unique class of copper that can kill 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria when cleaned regularly. CuVerro is the only class of solid surface materials registered with the EPA to actively cure bacteria, and its properties work 24/7, making it well-suited for commonly touched surfaces where bacteria is a concern.
DynaTrap (Dynamic Solutions Worldwide). DynaTrap emits UV light and carbon dioxide to attract disease-carrying mosquitoes and other predatory insects. The device uses a strong yet silent fan vacuum to pull insects into the trap. DynaTrap added three new products to its insect trap portfolio in 2018, and the Flylight trap for indoor use was named among the most innovative consumer products of the year.
Florajen Digestion (Clarion Brands). Florajen Digestion is a capsule containing three probiotic cultures to help restore gut health and support the immune system. The probiotic also lowers toxin production caused by C. diff by 90 percent. Florajen Digestion, formerly Florajen3, was added to Walgreens' "Ask Your Pharmacist" area in 2018, which has around 9,800 U.S. locations.
NexTemp Ultra (Medical Indicators). Medical Indicators' NexTemp Ultra is a clinically accurate, single-use disposable thermometer that circumvents cross-infection by throwing away the germs. The thermometer can take oral and axillary temperatures and is innovatively simple to use, cost-effective and maintenance-free.
Nephros DSU-H (Nephros). The FDA-cleared Nephros ultrafilter produces patient washing and drinking water, as well as suitable water for wound cleansing and equipment cleaning. The filter is designed for use on sinks, showers and ice machines to filter EPA-quality drinking water.
NexTemp (Medical Indicators). NexTemp is a multiple-use, single-patient clinically accurate thermometer that helps reduce healthcare-acquired infections by limiting patient-to-patient and patient-to-nurse infections. The product is for oral, axillary or rectal use and is available with an extended read time.
Nozin (Global Life Technologies Corp.). Nozin is the recognized leader in nasal decolonization with proprietary protocols designed to improve care, increase patient safety, lower infection risk and reduce costs in the healthcare community. These include protocols for ICU, OR and high risk patients utilizing Nozin® Nasal Sanitizer® antiseptic, an alcohol-based nasal decolonizing agent to safely reduce nasal carriage of pathogens, without using antibiotics. Nozin Infection Prevention Programs are clinically supported solutions for healthcare facilities, their patients and the providers who care for them.
Steripath Initial Specimen Diversion Device (Magnolia Medical Technologies). The proprietary Steripath Initial Specimen Diversion Device for preventing blood culture contamination enables accurate sepsis testing. It is a preassembled vein-to-bottle closed system that mechanically diverts and sequesters the initial 1.5 to 2 mL of blood into a proprietary isolation chamber. In early 2018, Magnolia Medical Technologies launched the second-generation Steripath Initial Specimen Diversion Device, which achieved an 83 percent reduction in blood culture contamination.
Pure-Light bulbs and spray coating (Pure-Light Technologies). Formed in 2014, Pure-Light Technologies helped develop a way to seal a transparent coating of TiO2 on light emitting devices that will last 10 or more years. The Pure-Light formula properly introduced will significantly reduce viruses pathogens, and hospital acquired Infections and conditions.
Timestrip Irreversible Blood Temperature Indicators (Timestrip). Timestrip Blood Temperature Indicators can help healthcare providers improve compliance and promote accountability during storage and transport. The Timestrip Blood Temp indicators can be stored at ambient temperatures and are activated when needed.
VioSafe White Light Disinfection (Vital Vio). VioSafe White Light Disinfection technology kills bacteria and harmful organisms on indoor surfaces with the help of illumination. By using Vital Vio's LED technology, which is safe for continuous human exposure, with traditional cleaning, hospitals are able to decrease contamination and infection risk. The product was awarded a patent for its single-diode disinfection technology in April 2018, marking its fourth patent overall.