Jul 2023 | Urrutia AR, Eid S, Bock KA, and Worrilow KC
HSOA Journal of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine (Herald Scholarly Open Access)
Abstract
This study, originally published in the Journals of Gerontology: Medical Sciences, aimed to assess the effectiveness of an Advanced Air Purification Technology (AAPT) in reducing airborne contaminants and improving clinical outcomes in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). With the increasing aging population, the demand for LTCFs is rising, highlighting the importance of indoor air quality. Current infection prevention programs in LTCFs often overlook airborne pathogens, which constitute a significant portion of all infection-causing pathogens. Respiratory diseases pose a significant risk to older adults with compromised respiratory systems. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in indoor air contribute to pulmonary impairment, making comprehensive remediation of airborne contaminants essential. The AAPT, which combines VOC filters, high-dose ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), and high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, was developed to provide ultra-pure air without harmful byproducts. The study compared the AAPT to standard HEPA filtration in a LTCF over a 15-month period. Environmental testing analyzed VOC levels, airborne and surface pathogens. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the impact of the AAPT on environmental and clinical metrics. The study demonstrated a significant reduction in airborne pathogens (98.83%) and VOC levels (89.88%) after AAPT installation. Notably, the study reported a 39.6% reduction in HAIs and a 47% decrease in staff call-outs on the study floor. These positive outcomes enhance resident wellness, safety and provide economic benefits for LTCFs. The study emphasizes the significance of high-quality air purification and highlights the novel application of the AAPT in LTCF settings. The AAPT’s effectiveness makes it a promising solution for improving indoor air quality in LTCFS. Further research is warranted to explore its application in different LTCF environments. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of AAPT to improve infection control practices and resident outcomes in LTCFs with broader implications for the field.