Safe Water in Healthcare by Walker, James T.; Surman-Lee, Susanne; McDermott, Paul J.; Weinbren, Michael;

Long description:

Safe Water in Healthcare: A Practical and Clinical Guide enables users from different disciplines to understand all types of waterborne hazards that can pose a risk to those who might be exposed, the events which cause them to be present, what may precipitate an increase in their levels that may cause harm, and how they can be avoided or managed to reduce risk. The handbook highlights microorganisms that can cause infections, modes of transmission, the infections they cause, and risks. The book's authors draw from their extensive practical experience assisting with day-to-day problems that range from minor issues to outbreaks.

The book includes case studies on the growth of biofilms and where they cause problems in water systems as well as providing practical answers to a majority of issues that arise in healthcare water and drainage systems. This is an accessible handbook that fills the gaps for those without technical knowledge for a complex but important area of infection control. It provides practical guidance for professionals who are required to design, manage and maintain water systems and help them manage associated infection outbreaks.

Table of Contents:

1. Overview of water / drainage systems and what you need to know
2. Overview of a hospital water system and how to identify microbial risks
3. Legislation, regulatory and statutory aspect of providing safe water
4. Overview of waterborne (including drain) microorganisms and infections
5. Monitoring water systems
6. Clinical surveillance of waterborne patient infections
7. The role of the water safety group
8. Control waterborn pathogens in hot and cold-water systems
9. Management of water systems in a crisis/pandemic
10. State of the art in water microbiology in healthcare - current research findings
11. Innovation and new technology
12. Glossary