## 1 Introduction  
Bacterial infections associated with implanted orthopaedic devices can have severe consequences, as they have the potential to delay or even stop bone fracture healing processes and hinder the successful implant osseointegration in the human body [1]. The risk of nosocomial infections--which refers to infection diseases acquired during a hospital stay--is an existing concern for all surgical patients, being particularly critical for those who receive implanted devices [2]. Over recent decades, a large number of publications and extensive reports, issued by such reputable sources as the World Health Organization (WHO), have shed light on the alarming extent of nosocomial infections, revealing that the problem is not only substantial but also on the rise [3; 4; 5; 6]. Despite the implementation of standardized protective measures in the majority of healthcare facilities, the threat of infections persists; they are frequently attributed to commensal bacteria residing on the skin of patients and/or healthcare personnel [7]. These bacteria, typically coexisting harmlessly with the human body, have the potential to survive on the skin and other surfaces for extended periods of time, serving as a reservoir for infection [8]. Furthermore, the extensive use of antibiotics in healthcare settings can contribute to the emergence of antibiotic resistant strains, making these bacteria even more challenging to treat when they cause an infection [9]. The treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections often causes difficulties and, in some cases, becomes impossible, underscoring the urgent need for innovative approaches. It is evident that novel measures are necessary to combat these persistent threats and enhance infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare environments [10]. Most commonly, the methods for disinfection of surfaces employed by health care providers involve the use of volatile chemical compounds such as aldehydes (glutaraldehyde and formaldehyde), hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxide, and ethylene oxide. While these compounds exhibit immediate antibacterial activity upon contact with contaminants, they have a tendency to evaporate quickly, leading to a loss of effectiveness [11; 12]. Furthermore, previous research work [13; 14] has highlighted the potential hazards associated with the frequent use of such cleaning and disinfecting agents, particularly their detrimental effects on the respiratory system of healthcare personnel and patients. This poses a significant challenge for medical care facilities, as the reliance on traditional disinfection approaches may not be sustainable in the near future. Therefore, there is a pressing need for development and implementation of new strategies that are both reliable and safe to address the limitations and risks associated with current practices [15]. The antibacterial properties of copper have been recognized and utilized for centuries. Historical records indicate that copper was employed for sterilizing drinking water and treating wounds, dating back to some of the oldest writings [16]. Throughout the history of mankind, various civilizations have effectively utilized copper as an antibacterial agent [17; 18]. In modern times, it is understood that the antibacterial activity of copper is closely associated with its high electrochemical potential, which enables it to easily donate and receive electrons. Microorganisms such as bacteria utilize copper-containing enzymes in many in vivo processes and chemical reactions such as electron transfer and oxidative phosphorylation. Additionally, copper ions play a crucial role in the formation of disulfide bonds in proteins, which is essential for their structural integrity and proper functioning. The deep-rooted and multifaceted antibacterial properties of copper make it an intriguing and valuable option for combating bacterial infections in various applications. However, it is important to note that copper can also be toxic when excessive amounts of it are introduced to bacteria.