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A solution for dysfunctional dilution: real-time detection of malfunctioning automated disinfectant dispensers using colorimetric or hydrophobic wipes that indicate disinfectant concentrations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 September 2025

Jennifer L. Cadnum ,
Elizabeth C. Eckstein Open the ORCID record for Elizabeth C. Eckstein [Opens in a new window] ,
Abhishek Deshpande Open the ORCID record for Abhishek Deshpande [Opens in a new window]  and
Curtis J. Donskey Open the ORCID record for Curtis J. Donskey [Opens in a new window]
Jennifer L. Cadnum
Affiliation:
Research Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
Elizabeth C. Eckstein
Affiliation:
Infection Control Department, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
Abhishek Deshpande
Affiliation:
Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, Bentonville, AR, USA
Curtis J. Donskey*
Affiliation:
Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
*
Corresponding author: Curtis J. Donskey; Email: Curtis.Donskey@va.gov
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Abstract

Automated dispensers that dilute concentrated disinfectants with water are commonly used but can malfunction. We provide proof-of-principle that incorporating indicators into wipe products could be an effective method to provide environmental services staff with real-time visual indication that disinfectants are present and at correct concentrations with every use.

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Concise Communication
Information
Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology , First View , pp. 1 - 4
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Creative Commons
This is a work of the US Government and is not subject to copyright protection within the United States. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America.
Copyright
© Department of Veterans Affairs, 2025.

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References

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