CLEEN Study Named Finalist for NSW Health Award

Thursday, October 17, 2024
Maddy Voinea
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Maddy Voinea

Avondale University is celebrating the recognition of Professor Brett Mitchell and his research team, who have been named finalists in the 2024 NSW Health Awards under the Health Research category for their world-first Cleaning and Enhanced Disinfection (CLEEN) Study. This pivotal research has made significant strides in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), contributing to both patient safety and cost savings for hospitals.

The CLEEN study, conducted in partnership with the Central Coast Local Health District, was carried out over 36 weeks at Gosford Hospital. The research team investigated how enhancing the cleaning and disinfection of shared medical equipment could drastically reduce infection rates in hospitals. Results showed a remarkable 34.5% reduction in HAIs and a five-fold improvement in cleaning effectiveness, making it a landmark study with global implications for hospital infection control practices.

Professor Brett Mitchell expressed the project’s far-reaching impact, stating, “This project has saved numerous infections in, prevented deaths, and is receiving significant national and international interest. Avondale University is proud to be part of such transformative research. Implemented across Australia and worldwide, this has the potential to make a profound positive impact for hospitalised patients.”

The project’s success has been further amplified by its recent publication in The Lancet Infectious Disease and its recognition with a Central Coast Local Health District award. Now, as one of three finalists in the NSW Health Awards, the research stands alongside some of the most innovative health initiatives in the state.

The NSW Health Awards, an annual event celebrating excellence in healthcare, will culminate in a gala ceremony on October 24, 2024, at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney. Senior health officials, including NSW Health Secretaries and government ministers, will be in attendance to honour the finalists and announce the winner of the Health Research category.

This recognition highlights Avondale University’s commitment to cutting-edge research with real-world applications. The CLEEN study’s findings are not only improving patient outcomes in Australia but are also poised to influence hospital cleaning practices worldwide.

For more details about the NSW Health Awards and to view the one-minute video showcasing the CLEEN project, visit the NSW Health Awards page.


About Avondale University
Avondale University is a higher education and research institution dedicated to shaping the future through innovation and community engagement. With a strong focus on holistic health, education, and social impact, Avondale’s research initiatives continue to address key challenges in Australia and beyond.

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