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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Composition and Distribution Analysis of Bioaerosols Under Different Environmental Conditions
Published on: January 7, 2019
[Aerosol kits in a health service: a post-processing microbiologic analysis]
Patrícia Staciarini Anders1, Anaclara Ferreira Veiga Tipple, Fabiana Cristina Pimenta
1Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública/ UFG, Goiânia, Goiás, Brasil. pstaciarini@yahoo.com.br
Abstract:
Aerosol kits are used in treatments of respiratory illnesses and require at least an intermediate level of disinfection for their reuse. The objectives of the study were to verify possible contamination of kits after they were processed as well as to identify the microorganisms that were isolated in them. This transversal experimental study was conducted in the pediatric unit of a hospital in Goiânia, State of Goiás. Samples were collected from three different parts (masks, cups and hoses) of 15 previously disinfected kits and placed in different culture media, and the microorganisms that were isolated were identified through biochemical tests. Of the kits that were analyzed, 13 cups, 9 hoses and 13 masks were found to be contaminated. A total of 101 CFU were isolated--39 from the cups, 20 from the hoses, and 42 the masks. Among the pathogens found were coagulase-positive Staphylococci, coagulase-negative Staphylococci, Gram negative fermenter rods, Gram negative nonfermenter rods, micrococcus and yeast. Microbial presence indicates probable inefficiencies in processing these items.
Insights
Disinfected aerosol kits used for respiratory illnesses showed contamination, indicating potential issues with reprocessing procedures. Further investigation is needed to ensure patient safety and effective infection control for reusable medical devices.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare-Associated Infections
Context:
- Aerosol kits are crucial for respiratory illness treatments.
- Reusable medical devices require effective disinfection protocols.
- Hospital-acquired infections pose a significant patient safety risk.
Purpose:
- To assess contamination levels in disinfected aerosol kits.
- To identify microorganisms present on processed aerosol kit components.
- To evaluate the efficacy of current disinfection methods for aerosol kits.
Summary:
- This study analyzed 15 disinfected aerosol kits from a pediatric hospital unit.
- Samples from masks, cups, and hoses were cultured and identified via biochemical tests.
- Contamination was found in 13 cups, 9 hoses, and 13 masks, with 101 Colony Forming Units (CFU) isolated.
Impact:
- Identified pathogens include Staphylococci, Gram-negative rods, and yeast.
- Results suggest potential inefficiencies in the disinfection process for aerosol kits.
- Highlights the need for improved reprocessing protocols to prevent microbial contamination and ensure patient safety.
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