Where are point-of-use (POU) water filters (tap and shower filters) used?
Point-of-use (POU) water sterile filters are used as an additional preventative measure in those areas where highly immunocompromised patients come into contact with water1,18-21. They can be installed at faucets (tap filters) or connected to shower hoses (shower filters). Most common areas include bone marrow transplant, hematology/oncology, intensive care, transplantation, burn, and neonatology units, endoscopic reprocessing areas, birth tubs, kitchens (for critical patient food preparation), and geriatric/skilled nursing facilities. Based on clinical experiences, POU sterile filtration is also used in other areas with immunocompromised patients such as nursing homes or home settings with chronically immunocompromised patients. POU filters are quickly installed, which makes them a useful instrument in acute outbreak control, e.g., in public buildings, swimming pools, sports centers or hotels during outbreaks of Legionella (eg.Legionella filters for non-medical markets).
