Laryngoscope handles: a potential for infection.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infection Control
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Laryngoscope handles rarely contact patient mucous membranes, thus routine disinfection is not standard.
• Recent findings suggest clean handles may harbor blood or body fluid contamination.
• Microbial contamination of laryngoscope handles has not been previously investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and types of microorganisms on laryngoscope handles post-use.
• To assess the risk of nosocomial infections associated with contaminated laryngoscope equipment.

Main Methods:

• Culturing 20 laryngoscope handles used in operating rooms.
• Incubation of cultures at 37°C for 48 hours.
• Identification, incidence, and antibiotic susceptibility testing of isolated organisms.

Main Results:

• All 20 laryngoscope handles cultured positive for microorganisms.
• Nine distinct microbial types were isolated, with some showing multi-antibiotic resistance.
• Isolated organisms included contaminants and opportunistic pathogens.

Conclusions:

• The presence of opportunistic pathogens on laryngoscope handles presents a risk for nosocomial infections in patients and anesthesia providers.
• Current guidelines should be updated to include recommendations for disposable covers, high-level disinfection, or sterilization of laryngoscope equipment between patient uses.