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New research · Ophthalmology
Archivos de la Sociedad Espanola de Oftalmologia · 5d
Cross-sectionalArchivos de la Sociedad Espanola de Oftalmologia · 2026

Bacterial contamination map of high-touch surfaces in a hospital ophthalmology department: A cross-sectional study.

V M Asensio-Sánchez, A Frontela, T Nebreda-Mayoral, M Cuervo-Abarquero
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OphthalmologyCross-sectional

Critical touch points in eye clinics had the highest bacterial surface contamination.

Bacterial contamination map of high-touch surfaces in a hospital ophthalmology department: A cross-sectional study.

V M Asensio-Sánchez … M Cuervo-Abarquero
Archivos de la Sociedad Espanola de Oftalmologia · 2026
Background

Bacterial contamination of high-touch surfaces can facilitate healthcare-associated infections, particularly in ophthalmology, where frequent contact with diagnostic devices occurs.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate and characterize bacterial load on high-touch surfaces in a hospital ophthalmology department, identifying critical areas and predominant bacterial groups.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study conducted in a tertiary hospital, sampling 150 surfaces across consultation rooms, emergency areas, waiting rooms, administrative areas, and critical points.

n = 150 surfaces
Results

at high-touch spots, swabs picked up the most bacteria of any area

104CFU/cm
Consultation rooms
118CFU/cm
Critical points
More results

The most contaminated surfaces were slit-lamp chin rests, keyboards and mice, touch screens, and tonometer cones.

Coagulase-negative staphylococci predominated (79%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (14%) and Gram-negative bacilli (9%).

“
Conclusion

Frequently touched surfaces in ophthalmology departments exhibit high bacterial loads, underscoring the need for differentiated cleaning protocols, periodic audits, and staff training to reduce cross-contamination and improve patient safety.

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