Submersible keyboard aids fight against hospital infection

5 November 2007

Devlin Electronics has launched a washable keyboard specifically designed to help health services tackle the problems of hospital-acquired infections.

The KCR-106-6XX is the result of an intensive programme to develop a product specifically for medical applications, and is designed to remove potential infection traps found in standard keyboards and to withstand rigorous cleaning procedures.

The KCR-106-6XX is fully submersible and has a patented ‘clean’ key that allows it to be cleaned rapidly without the need to close down applications or switch off the computer. This means that effective hygiene measures can easily be adopted without disrupting or delaying normal hospital routines.

“The new keyboards are capable of playing a valuable supporting role as hospitals intensify their efforts to combat the effects of MRSA and C. difficile,” explained Martin Baker, MD of Devlin. “The British Government’s announcement of new measures to control infection, including the appointment of a regulator, alongside greater powers for matrons and nurses, highlights the risks inherent in standard equipment. Most of the keyboards currently in use were developed without proper provision for infection-control procedures. Consequently, their design does not allow for the routine and thorough cleaning procedures that are now considered standard practise.”

Unlike membrane-covered keyboards, the KCR-106-6XX provides the ‘feel’ of a full-sized standard keyboard, which improves accuracy and cuts frustration for those using it with gloved hands.

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