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An outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection associated with contaminated urodynamic equipment

G W Yardy1, R A Cox

  • 1Department of Urology, Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8UZ, UK.

The Journal of Hospital Infection
|February 13, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Reusable urodynamic equipment led to Pseudomonas aeruginosa urinary tract infections in seven patients. One patient died from complications, highlighting risks associated with reusing single-use medical devices.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Device Safety

Background:

  • Urodynamic studies are essential for diagnosing bladder dysfunction.
  • Standard protocols emphasize sterile procedures and single-use equipment.

Observation:

  • A cluster of seven Pseudomonas aeruginosa urinary tract infections (UTIs) occurred post-urodynamics.
  • One patient experienced severe sepsis and meningitis, with a fatal outcome.
  • Two patients required hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic therapy.

Findings:

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa was identified in the reusable pressure dome of the urodynamic system.
  • The 'single-use' device was reused monthly as a cost-saving measure.
  • This reuse practice created a reservoir for bacterial contamination.

Implications:

  • Non-adherence to single-use protocols poses significant patient infection risks.
  • Healthcare facilities must rigorously enforce single-use device policies.
  • Economic pressures should not compromise patient safety and infection control standards.

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