QUANTITATIVE HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF ICU MICROBIAL AEROSOL POLLUTION

Abstract

Indoor air quality in hospital intensive care units (ICUs) is crucial to the health and safety of patients and medical staff. Aerosolized bacteria are a significant contributor to nosocomial infections, highlighting the need for continuous environmental monitoring. This study conducted a Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment to evaluate the health risks associated with inhalation exposure to airborne bacteria in the ICU of RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo. Using a cross-sectional observational design, aerosol air samples were collected three times daily across three weekly intervals at three designated ICU locations. Forty-eight ICU nurses participated as respondents. Revealed that bacterial concentrations at several sampling points exceeded established safety standards. Pearson correlation analysis showed that humidity significantly influenced bacterial aerosol concentrations (p = 0.000), with higher humidity correlating with increased bacterial presence. QMRA findings indicated that at point 1, 95.8% of respondents had a Hazard Quotient (HQ) > 1, suggesting potential health risk, while 100% at points 2, 3, and 4 were similarly at risk. These results underscore the need for improved infection control and environmental management practices within ICU settings to reduce microbial aerosol exposure and protect healthcare workers and patients.