How to Prevent Pseudomonas Infections

Pseudomonas infections, caused by any bacteria in the Pseudomonas genus, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are hardy and have been found in animals, plants, soil and water. Pseudomonas favors moist environments and can live in chlorinated pools and antiseptic solutions. The bacteria also can be found in most people but rarely causes infection unless the host is immunocompromised. The following steps will show how to prevent pseudomonas infections.

Instructions

• 1

  Enforce standard precautions to prevent the spread of pseudomonas infections. No vaccine is available and antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended because of the emerging resistance in these organisms.

• 2

  Avoid animals that may be infected with Burkholderia mallei or Burkholderia pseudomallei.

• 3

  Limit the use of central lines, endotracheal tubes and Foley catheters or avoid them entirely. Follow the CDC guidelines for inserting catheters.

• 4

  Stay informed on studies involving the effectiveness of antibiotic-treated catheters.

• 5

  Follow the CDC Health and Safety Guidelines for Public Spas and Hot Tubs to prevent folliculitis. The free chlorine concentration should be maintained in the 1 to 3 mg/L range with a pH of 7.2 to 7.8. Bromine can be used instead of chlorine. Drain public hot tubs and whirlpools daily and clean the interior with an acidic solution. Drain private hot tubs every four to eight weeks.

• 6

  Irrigate the ears with alcohol and acetic acid before and after swimming to prevent swimmer's ear. Remove wet swimsuits as soon as possible. Avoid public swimming pools at the end of the day.