The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Barbados vociferously denied the erroneous reports in the media that the Artificial Kidney Unit (AKU) was closed at any point since its inception and definitely not over the several months.
The facts are, according to the QEH website, that as a result of the discovery of the Pseudomonas Bacteria, the Hospital Management took a series of immediate actions to address the situation. These include flushing and chlorination of water tanks, machinery and water treatment machines.
This exercise was carried out in 2014 and as a result of this action, patients who were to receive treatment on the third shift on that day were outsourced to an existing provider. This was to ensure that their care was not compromised and to assure their safety.
After this rigorous process, steps were taken to test the water supply to ensure that the colonization of the bacteria is within acceptable levels. Dr. Delores Lewis, Consultant, Microbiologist noted that, “it is important to stress that bacteria is commonly found in moist environments. However the critical factor in an AKU is the level of bacteria that is present.”
She went on to state that our Hospital Infection Control protocols mandate that testing is done monthly for bacteria levels and results are carefully monitored to assure that they do not go above the acceptable standard. Furthermore, any microorganisms that may pose a threat to the patients are identified.
Director of Medical Services, Mr. Anthony Harris said that the hospital has stepped up the cleansing process between dialysis patients.
“After each patient, the machines will now undergo a chemical cleanse. Additionally, we will carry out more frequent testing to assure patient safety.” Mr. Harris also noted that a site visit to the AKU this morning revealed that the unit is fully operational and that patients appear to be happy with the service they are receiving.
“We will continue to closely monitor the level of bacteria so as to ensure that patient care is not compromised,” he reiterated.
The AKU at the QEH services approximately 176 patients and outsources just over 24 patients. (Source: QEH website)
