Point-in-time characterization of microbiological and physicochemical parameters of drinking water in two nursing homes in Alto Paraná, Paraguay

Abstract

Introduction: Drinking water quality is an important aspect of public health, particularly in institutions housing vulnerable populations, such as older adults. Objective: To characterize the microbiological and physicochemical parameters of water intended for human consumption in two nursing homes in the department of Alto Paraná, Paraguay. Materials and Methods: A descriptive exploratory study based on point-in-time sampling was conducted, with one water sample collected from each institution on a single date and analyzed. The samples were collected on October 2, 2024, and analyzed on October 3, 2024, at a water testing laboratory at a university in Alto Paraná. Physicochemical parameters (pH, organic matter, nitrates, and nitrites) and microbiological parameters (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and mesophilic aerobic bacteria) were determined using standardized methods. Results: The values for organic matter, nitrates, nitrites, and mesophilic aerobic bacteria were within the applied reference criteria. Fecal coliforms were not detected in either sample. In one of the samples, 4 CFU/100 mL of total coliforms were detected. The pH recorded in this sample was 4.05, which falls within the general range of 4 to 9 established by NP 24 001 80. Conclusion: The results correspond exclusively to the samples analyzed and describe the conditions observed at the time of sampling; therefore, further sampling is required to assess variations in water quality in the institutions studied.