US probes: risk of cross infection and ways to reduce it--comparison of cleaning methods
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
After their use at ultrasonography (US) in the intensive therapy unit, probes were used to directly inoculate blood agar plates before and after various cleaning procedures. The uncleaned probes transmitted large numbers of clinically important microbes. Simple cleaning methods were effective in reducing transmission among certain patients: fit patients, double paper wipe; patients at risk of contracting infection, single paper wipe followed by alcohol wipe; patients with a potential source of infection, single paper wipe followed by alcohol wipe.
Insights
Ultrasonography probes can transmit microbes. Simple cleaning methods, like paper and alcohol wipes, effectively reduce microbial transmission from these probes in intensive therapy units.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Ultrasonography (US) is widely used in intensive therapy units (ITUs).
- Probes used in clinical settings may harbor and transmit microorganisms.
- Ensuring probe hygiene is crucial for preventing healthcare-associated infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microbial transmission potential of ultrasonography probes.
- To assess the effectiveness of different cleaning procedures in reducing microbial transmission.
- To determine optimal cleaning protocols based on patient risk.
Main Methods:
- Probes were used for direct inoculation of blood agar plates before and after cleaning.
- Various simple cleaning methods were tested, including paper wipes and alcohol wipes.
- Microbial cultures were analyzed to quantify transmission of clinically important microbes.
Main Results:
- Uncleaned ultrasonography probes transmitted significant numbers of clinically important microbes.
- Double paper wiping was effective for fit patients.
- Single paper wipe followed by alcohol wipe reduced transmission for patients at risk or with a potential infection source.
Conclusions:
- Simple cleaning protocols can significantly reduce microbial transmission from ultrasonography probes.
- Tailored cleaning strategies based on patient risk are recommended for infection control.
- Effective probe disinfection is essential in intensive care settings.
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