Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Within the chiropractic profession there may be the possibility that microorganisms can be transmitted between the chiropractor, the patient and the treatment bed. This transmission could potentially lead to further infection. With the identification of potential routes of transmission within the chiropractic profession, the transmission and risk of infection from pathogenic microorganisms may be reduced. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the possible routes of microbial transmission between a chiropractor, patient and treatment bed using Glo-GermTM cream (fluoresces when exposed to Ultraviolet (UV) lights) as a surrogate for microorganisms.
METHODOLOGY
The study design was a qualitative, descriptive study. Glo-GermTM cream was applied to either the chiropractor, patient or treatment bed depending on the route studied. Following a mock treatment, which consisted of an initial greeting (handshake) and three Chiropractic manipulation set-ups, the spread of the Glo-GermTM cream was visualized with black lights which emit long-wave UVA radiation and little visible light in order to observe fluorescence. Transmission of the Glo-GermTM in the treatment room between the chiropractor, patient and treatment bed was noted. This was done in triplicate for each contamination source tested.
RESULTS
The results showed that there was transfer of the Glo-GermTM cream between the chiropractor, patient and treatment bed. The transfer routes were determined by the visual transmission of Glo-GermTM from the area of the application to the area being tested. The intensity and the amount of Glo-GermTM that was transmitted determined the level of risk for the...
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)