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Disposable humidifiers in a recovery room--a microbiological evaluation
APIC
|August 10, 1979
Summary
Disposable humidifiers are low risk for infection, even when exposed to airborne bacteria. Studies show these units remain sterile during use, suggesting institutions should assess their use based on patient and environmental factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Infection Control
- Respiratory Therapy
Background:
- Humidification is considered low risk for infection compared to nebulization.
- Concerns exist regarding potential bacterial contamination of humidification units.
- Airborne contamination is a potential route for bacterial inoculation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate airborne contamination as a source of bacterial inoculum in disposable humidifiers.
- To determine the duration disposable humidifiers remain free of bacterial contamination in clinical settings.
Main Methods:
- Disposable humidifiers were deployed in high and low patient volume recovery room areas.
- Units were utilized across multiple patients, with only the cannula changed between use.
- Bacterial contamination levels were monitored over the usage period.
Main Results:
- Disposable humidifiers showed potential for airborne bacterial inoculation.
- Contaminated effluents did not exceed background air levels.
- Units consistently remained sterile throughout their use in both high and low volume areas.
Conclusions:
- Airborne contamination is a potential, though not effluent-contaminating, risk for disposable humidifiers.
- Disposable humidifiers maintained sterility during clinical use, irrespective of patient volume.
- Institutional evaluation of disposable humidifier use should prioritize patient parameters and environmental context over generic guidelines.