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Related Concept Videos

Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity01:20

Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity

Description
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...
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Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture

Sputum studies are a critical part of diagnosing and treating numerous respiratory conditions. These studies involve obtaining sputum samples for analysis to identify pathogenic organisms and assess the presence of abnormal cells indicative of malignant conditions. This lesson will delve into three fundamental sputum studies: Gram Stain, Cytology, and Acid-fast Smear and Culture.
Gram Stain
The Gram Stain is an integral part of sputum studies. It involves the staining of sputum, which permits...
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract01:29

Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract

The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 25, 2026

Conducting Respiratory Oscillometry in an Outpatient Setting
14:49

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Published on: April 8, 2022

Microbiological contamination of spirometers - an exploratory study in general practice.

Kerry L Hancock1, Tjard R Schermer, Christine Holton

  • 1Primary Care Respiratory Research Unit, Discipline of General Practice, School of Population Health and Clinical Practice, University of Adelaide, South Australia. khancock@health.on.net

Australian Family Physician
|January 26, 2012
PubMed
Summary

Spirometers in general practices may harbor harmful bacteria, posing a risk for patient cross-contamination. Regular disinfection protocols are crucial to prevent the spread of respiratory pathogens via this diagnostic equipment.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infection Control
  • General Practice

Background:

  • Spirometry is vital for diagnosing chronic respiratory diseases in primary care.
  • Spirometry equipment can harbor pathogens, risking cross-transmission if hygiene is inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess microbiological contamination in general practice spirometers.
  • To identify potential risks associated with spirometer use in primary care settings.

Main Methods:

  • Microbiological analysis of 16 spirometers from South Australian general practices.
  • Evaluation of existing cleaning protocols and disinfection frequencies.

Main Results:

  • Potentially pathogenic microorganisms (Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., Alcaligenes spp.) found in 3 of 16 spirometers.
  • Disinfection frequency did not align with manufacturer recommendations in affected practices.

Conclusions:

  • Spirometers can act as reservoirs for microorganisms, highlighting infection risks in general practice.
  • Enhanced adherence to hygiene measures and manufacturer guidelines for spirometer maintenance is essential.