Compliance for decontamination of bedside computer keyboards on an ICU

Abstract

An audit to assess the compliance of decontamination of bedside computer keyboards by medical staff on an ICU. The topic was used for audit as previously identified by the hospital infection control department as the worst-performing area on 'clean trace' scoring, and had been a regular topic of discussion between members of the medical team. Bedside keyboards automatically emit an alarm sound and small flashing LED light if cleaning is required prior to use. Discussion and hypothesis on reasons for rates of compliance follow this, including social/human factors that are barriers to compliance with infection control measures.