Pressure Matters: Verifying the Front Line of Airborne Infection Control

1 IPU

Thursday, November 12, 2026 @ 1 pm ET

Speaker: 

Daniel J. Thompson REHS, HVAC-R

Differential pressure monitors are critical in maintaining safe environments within healthcare facilities, especially in Airborne Infection Isolation Rooms and Protective Environment rooms. These monitors ensure that airflow is directed appropriately—into isolation rooms to contain airborne pathogens, and out of protective rooms to shield immunocompromised patients from outside contaminants. Constant and accurate pressure monitoring is essential to preserving these directional airflows, which are key components of infection prevention strategies.

However, over time, pressure monitors can drift out of calibration, malfunction, or become clogged with dust and debris, leading to inaccurate readings. Relying solely on digital displays without verification poses a risk to patient safety. That’s why manual pressure checks using manometers or pressure meters are necessary to validate monitor readings and identify discrepancies. Routine manual verification helps catch inconsistencies, prompting timely recalibration or replacement of faulty devices.

Proactively managing and verifying differential pressure systems ensures that isolation and protective rooms are functioning as designed. It helps facilities maintain compliance with infection control guidelines and ensures that vulnerable patients remain safe from airborne transmission risks. Combining technology with manual oversight builds confidence in environmental controls and upholds the integrity of critical care spaces.

IPUs: 

• APIC designates this activity for 1 infection prevention unit(s). 
• For more information, please see https://www.cbic.org/CBIC/Rece...