Literature Review and Practice Recommendations: Existing and emerging technologies used for decontamination of the healthcare environment - Antimicrobial Copper and Silver Solutions

This literature review aims to review the evidence for using antimicrobial copper and silver for decontamination of the healthcare environment and reusable non-invasive patient care equipment.

Objectives

• To provide a generic description of antimicrobial copper and silver, including the proposed or actual mechanism of action and the procedure for use.
• To assess the scientific evidence for effectiveness of antimicrobial copper and silver.
• To explore practical and safety considerations related to the use of antimicrobial copper and silver.
• To explore the costs associated with use of antimicrobial copper and silver.
• To produce an evidence sheet to assist the Environmental Decontamination Steering Group in making practical recommendations on the use of antimicrobial copper and silver for NHSScotland.