When you are lying in hospital perhaps the last thing that would cross your mind is the possibility that you could pick up a life-threatening illness from the pen that your doctor is using to write up your notes.
A study has confirmed, however, that writing instruments touched by healthcare professionals and hospitalised patients are a potential source of cross infection with MRSA.
Scientists at the University of Houston found that, although health personnel are trained in handwashing procedures, writing pens may be carried over several days without disinfection, making them potential carriers of infectious agents.
Biomaster antimicrobial technology provides round-the-clock protection in hygiene-critical environments against bacterial build-up from harmful species such MRSA, E.coli and Legionella
The biggest concern in UK hospitals is around the number of cases of Methicillin- Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). It has been shown that bacteria such as MRSA can survive up to 38 weeks, or even longer, on contaminated surfaces.
But now, thanks to Biomaster antimicrobial protection, contaminated pens could be a thing of the past and at least one more item to strike off the list of hospital disease carriers.
Addmaster has been working with pen manufacturer, Swanneck, to develop a range of pens treated with Biomaster antimicrobial technology for the healthcare sector. Biomaster is a safe, effective and permanent solution for reducing the risk of cross infection, lasting the lifetime of the pen.
The original Swan neck pen was a British invention and was designed to make writing simple for left-handers, although the pen is just as effective for right handed people and those writing in Arabic and other right-to-left languages.
The pen also helps left-handed children who often find it difficult to see what they are writing when they are learning to shape characters. The pen’s simple design incorporates the patented S-bend neck and ergonomic grip.
When manufactured with added antimicrobial protection, swan neck pens reduce the growth of bacteria and prevent the spread of viruses, making them ideally suited for use in the NHS and general medical sector.
Biomaster antimicrobial technology is already used extensively in hospitals, dental surgeries, care homes and GP practices around the world, built into products ranging from beds, cubicle curtains, nursecall systems, wall and ceiling paints, floors and door handles to pull cords and case note holders. There are currently more than 50 different Biomaster treated products being used in NHS hospitals throughout the UK.
Addmaster marketing manager, Karl Shaw, said: “Patient safety is a cornerstone of healthcare and preventing healthcare associated infections remains a priority. Biomaster antimicrobial technology provides round-the-clock protection in hygiene-critical environments against bacterial build-up from harmful species such MRSA, E.coli and Legionella.”
