In the fight against Healthcare-Associated Infections (HCAIs), gram-negative bacteria
present a formidable challenge due to their resistance to many antibiotics and their ability to thrive in hospital environments. Recent studies have highlighted the role of
water sources, such as wash hand basins and other water interfaces, as significant
reservoirs for these pathogens. “Waterless Care” offers a revolutionary approach to
infection control, eliminating these risks and significantly reducing the incidence of
gram-negative bacterial infections in hospitals.

1. Reduction in Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections
Waterless care methods, which eliminate the need for traditional water-based
handwashing and patient bathing, have been proven to reduce the prevalence of gram-
negative bacterial infections. Studies have shown that hospital environments, particularly sinks and wash hand basins, are common sources of gram-negative
bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella
pneumoniae. The removal of these water interfaces has led to a marked decrease in the spread of these pathogens.

For example, a study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that the removal of wash hand basins from patient rooms resulted in a 60% reduction in gram-negative
bacterial infections over a 12-month period . Another study in The Lancet Infectious
Diseases reported that replacing traditional bathing practices with waterless bathing
products reduced the incidence of infections caused by multi-drug resistant gram-
negative bacteria by 50% in an ICU setting.

2. Eliminating Waterborne Pathogen Reservoirs
Water sources in hospitals, particularly stagnant water in basins and plumbing systems, serve as breeding grounds for gram-negative bacteria. These bacteria can colonize and multiply in these environments, leading to their spread via splashing or aerosolisation during handwashing or other water-based procedures. By removing these water sources and adopting waterless care methods, hospitals can eliminate these reservoirs and significantly reduce the risk of HCAIs.

In a controlled study conducted in a tertiary care hospital, the introduction of waterless care protocols, coupled with the removal of wash hand basins, led to a 70% reduction in Acinetobacter infections in the ICU . The study emphasized that the majority of these infections were linked to contaminated water sources, which were eliminated by the intervention.

3. Improved Patient Outcomes and Safety
Waterless Care enhances patient safety by reducing the risk of exposure to harmful
pathogens. Traditional water-based cleaning methods can inadvertently spread gram-
negative bacteria if proper protocols are not strictly followed. In contrast, waterless
products, such as alcohol-based hand rubs and pre-moistened cleansing wipes, offer a
controlled and consistent method of hygiene that minimizes the risk of cross- contamination.

A clinical trial published in The Journal of Hospital Infection demonstrated that
hospitals implementing waterless care saw a 45% reduction in overall HCAIs, with the
most significant decreases observed in cases of Pseudomonas and Klebsiella infections . This evidence underscores the importance of moving away from water-
based hygiene practices to protect vulnerable patient populations.

4. Streamlining Infection Control Practices
Waterless Care simplifies infection control protocols, making it easier for healthcare
workers to maintain high standards of hygiene. With water sources removed, there is
less risk of accidental contamination during hand hygiene or patient care procedures.
Waterless products are easy to use, promoting higher compliance rates among staff,
which is critical in reducing the spread of gram-negative bacteria.

5. Cost-Effective and Sustainable
By eliminating the need for wash hand basins and other water-intensive practices,
hospitals can also achieve cost savings in water usage, maintenance, and infection
control measures. The reduction in gram-negative bacterial infections also translates to lower healthcare costs associated with treating these often difficult-to-manage
infections.

Clinical Evidence Supports Waterless Care
The body of evidence supporting Waterless Care is robust and growing. Clinical studies have consistently shown that removing water interfaces and adopting waterless hygiene practices lead to significant reductions in HCAIs, particularly those caused by gram- negative bacteria. Hospitals around the world are increasingly adopting these practices as part of comprehensive infection control strategies, with clear benefits in patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

Transform Your Infection Control Practices Today
Within the Hospital environment, we are at the forefront of infection control innovation. Our adoption of Waterless Care practices reflects our commitment to patient safety and the highest standards of care.

Contact Us
Contact us to discover the difference Waterless Care can make in your facility and how it can impact upon improved patient outcomes.