What is a major infection risk associated with carpets in hospitals?

• A. They improve airflow.
• B. They reduce noise.
• C. They can be a source of hospital-acquired infections.
• D. They are cost-effective.

Answer: (C)

Carpets in patient care areas can act as reservoirs for microbes, making environmental surface choices a key factor in infection control. The dense fibers trap dust, skin cells, moisture, and spills, and they’re notoriously hard to clean thoroughly. Microorganisms can linger deep in the pile and padding, and moisture from spills or humidity can promote growth of bacteria and mold. When people walk or move equipment, microbes on carpet fibers can be dislodged and spread through the air or tracked into sterile zones, increasing exposure risk for vulnerable patients. Because of these issues, carpets are associated with a higher risk of hospital-acquired infections than hard-surface floors. The other statements don’t address this infection risk direction—carpets don’t meaningfully improve airflow, their noise-reduction benefit isn’t about infection, and their cost-effectiveness doesn’t reflect infection concerns.