Use of textiles impregnated with antimicrobials in health services: integrative review

Abstract

Objective: To describe the evidence about the feasibility of using textiles impregnated with antimicrobial substances to prevent microbial transmission in health services. Method: Integrative review, using the Medline, Web of Science, CINAHL, SCOPUS and LILACS databases to answer the question: "Is the use of textiles impregnated with antimicrobial substances in health services a viable alternative in reducing the microbial load?" Results: Silver nanoparticles and copper oxide were the main antimicrobial substances used for the impregnation of textiles. The use of these textiles by patients, such as hospitality clothes and
clothing, demonstrated greater effectiveness in reducing the microbial load compared to the use as a uniform by health professionals. Conclusion: The impregnation of textiles with antimicrobial substances, especially intended for use by patients, can be considered a viable alternative to prevent microbial transmission in health services.