The Tucson VA received its Legionella retest results from the drawing of water samples in both the hot and the cold water distribution systems from inpatient hospital areas. Once collected, water samples are processed by Phigenics Analytics Services Laboratory who is certified to conduct the Legionella testing. On Monday, the Tucson VA received its Legionella retest results. The latest results indicated the remediation process for Legionella eradication have been extremely successful, and the samples, which included six water samples found only one positive indication of Legionella in a cold water faucet in building 30. The Tucson VA is taking immediate remediation steps and will retest again in accordance with VHA Directive 1061, Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Legionella Disease and Scald Injury from Potable Water Distribution Systems, dated August 13, 2014. The test results will be available within 10 to 14 days and the results will be shared with Veterans, employees and the public. There is no impact to patient care and Point of Use Filter will remain in place while remediation steps are taken. The Tucson VA has a zero tolerance policy for legionella bacteria, and there is no impact to patient care. It is important to note that Legionella is present in natural and artificial water environments worldwide. Person-to-person transmission of Legionella disease does not occur. We want to stress the water is safe to drink, use in washing of hands and for use in patient care. The water conditions at the Tucson VA have not caused any infection in either patients or staff.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Dec 2014 18:23:32 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015