Report of Webinar
The webinar focused on the work conducted by the infection prevention control team at Betsi Cadwaladr University and Staffordshire University’s Forensic Science Department. The main presenters were Paul Clarke, a visiting fellow at Staffordshire University, and Dr Sarah Fieldhouse, an associate professor of forensic science at Staffordshire University. The presentation discussed the use of a specific type of light source (CIFITORCH) for the examination of surfaces in hospital settings.
The primary aim of the project was to enhance patient safety by using forensic science methods to improve infection prevention outcomes in healthcare settings. The vision was to create a research program that, in partnership with forensic and healthcare professionals, could reveal the invisible and contribute to patient safety, aligning with the core principle of “Do no harm.” Furthermore, the project aimed to drive continuous improvement by adopting a zero-tolerance approach to healthcare-associated infections.
The very first requirement in a hospital is that it should do the sick, no harm.
Florence Nightingale
Forensic light sources are an essential tool for detecting invisible substances in various fields, including forensic science, healthcare, and environmental cleanliness. These are light sources that emit light in a specific wavelength range, allowing the detection of substances that are invisible to the naked eye. Moreover, these substances can include bodily fluids, fibres, and other trace evidence that can be useful in solving crimes.
The technology was tested on various surfaces, such as bed frames, over-bed tables, mattresses, pillows, toilets, commodes, and patient chairs. Results showed that a significant proportion of surfaces had traces suitable for examination. These traces varied in intensity and size, indicating differences in contaminants.
Moreover, the Fluorescence Examination Technology effectiveness was compared to ATP testing, revealing that the fluorescence examination could detect many substances not covered by ATP testing. The technology also helped identify material that might be of interest, even if it didn’t contain ATP.
One of the most significant advantages of forensic light sources is their ability to detect substances that are invisible under normal lighting conditions. For example, bloodstains can be challenging to detect, especially if they are on a dark surface. However, when illuminated with a forensic light source, bloodstains will fluoresce, making them visible to the naked eye.
Forensic light sources are also used in healthcare settings to detect bacteria and other pathogens that can cause infections. Infection prevention control teams use forensic light sources to detect areas that may be contaminated with bacteria, such as hospital rooms and medical equipment. By detecting these areas, healthcare professionals can take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of infections.
Another advantage of forensic light sources is their ability to detect invisible substances without damaging the evidence. For example, when using a chemical reagent to detect bloodstains, the reagent can damage the DNA in the bloodstain, making it difficult to obtain a DNA profile. However, when using a forensic light source, the evidence remains intact, allowing for further analysis.
Forensic light sources are also used in environmental cleanliness to detect areas that may be contaminated with bacteria and other pathogens. For example, in food processing plants, forensic light sources are used to detect areas that may be contaminated with bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli. By detecting these areas, food processing plants can take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.
In conclusion, forensic light sources are an essential tool for detecting invisible substances in various fields, including forensic science, healthcare, and environmental cleanliness. Their ability to detect invisible substances without damaging the evidence makes them a valuable tool for crime scene investigations, infection prevention control, and environmental cleanliness. As technology continues to advance, forensic light sources will continue to play an essential role in detecting invisible substances.
Furthermore, the research presents a new approach to auditing cleanliness in healthcare settings using fluorescence examination technology. It has the potential to significantly improve existing cleaning auditing methods and enhance patient safety while reducing healthcare-associated infections.
