Microbiological monitoring of the hospital environment: risk assessment and strategies in infection control systems

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the role and prospects of microbial environmental monitoring in a healthcare facility, to evaluate strategies for controlling microbial contamination, to identify the species composition of microorganisms and factors that pose a threat to creating a safe environment in the facility. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of microbiological monitoring at a 200-bed healthcare facility (2020–2023) was conducted. Over 15,500 swab samples were collected from high-touch surfaces. Microorganism cultivation followed standard methods, with fungi grown on Sabouraud medium. Procedures complied with DSTU EN ISO 15189:2015 standards. The statistical reliability of relative indicators was calculated using a formula that included the standard error calculation.