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[Infection control measures in anaesthesia]
1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Krankenhaushygiene, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover. Vonberg.Ralf@MH-Hannover.de
Abstract:
Several reasons such as ignorance, convenience, or economical considerations might lead to disobeying basic hygiene measures in anaesthesia. The most important recommendations are for: 1. General anaesthesia: bacterial filters prevent breathing circuit contamination from patient's expiratory secretions. This way reprocessing of reusable components is required only once a day or in case an external contamination has occurred; 2. Neuraxial blockade: use of sterile gloves, a surgical face mask, and a sterile gown is recommended; 3. Intravenous anaesthesia: equipment not manufactured for re-use may not be used for more than one patient under any circumstances. One-way-valves do not securely prevent retrograde contamination of the infusion system. Do not use multi dose vials unless declared by manufacturer. Alcoholic hand disinfection is the most important measure in order to avoid nosocomial pathogen transmission and infection.
Insights
Basic hygiene in anesthesia prevents infections. Key measures include using bacterial filters for general anesthesia, sterile equipment for neuraxial blockade, and single-use items for intravenous anesthesia, alongside hand disinfection to avoid pathogen transmission.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Infection Control
- Patient Safety
Context:
- Non-adherence to basic hygiene measures in anesthesia can stem from ignorance, convenience, or cost.
- Ensuring proper hygiene is critical to prevent nosocomial pathogen transmission and infection during anesthetic procedures.
Purpose:
- To outline essential hygiene recommendations across different anesthesia types to minimize infection risks.
- To emphasize the importance of specific protocols for general anesthesia, neuraxial blockade, and intravenous anesthesia.
Summary:
- General anesthesia: Employ bacterial filters to prevent breathing circuit contamination from expiratory secretions, allowing for daily reprocessing of reusable components.
- Neuraxial blockade: Mandate the use of sterile gloves, surgical face masks, and sterile gowns.
- Intravenous anesthesia: Prohibit the reuse of non-disposable equipment and exercise caution with multi-dose vials. Alcoholic hand disinfection is paramount.
Impact:
- Implementing these hygiene standards can significantly reduce the incidence of anesthesia-related infections.
- Improved adherence to protocols enhances patient safety and reduces healthcare-associated complications.
- Clear guidelines support consistent infection control practices in diverse anesthetic settings.
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