(Mis)perception and Use of Unsterile Water in Home Medical Devices, PN View 360+ Survey, United States, August 2021

Abstract

Tap water is not sterile, and its use in home medical devices can result in infections from waterborne pathogens. However, many participants in a recent survey in the United States said tap water could safely be used for home medical devices. These results can inform communication materials to reduce the high consequence of infections.

Keywords

• (Mis)perception
• aerosolized tap water
• contact lenses
• tap water exposure
• bacteria
• nasal rinsing