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Bacterial contamination and cleanliness of emergency department ultrasound probes

Geoffrey E Sanz1, Jonathan Theoret, Michael M Liao

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON.

CJEM
|March 23, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study found no methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on emergency department ultrasound probes, suggesting MRSA spread via these devices is unlikely in this setting. Further research is needed for broader conclusions.

Area of Science:

  • Infection Control
  • Medical Microbiology
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Ultrasonography is common in emergency departments (EDs).
  • Ultrasound probes can pose infection risks if not properly cleaned.
  • Pathogens like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) could potentially spread via contaminated probes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of MRSA colonization on ultrasound probes in a busy, urban ED.
  • To assess the risk of MRSA transmission through ED ultrasound equipment.

Main Methods:

  • An observational study involving 11 ED ultrasound probes sampled 10 times each.
  • Samples cultured for MRSA and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) using RODAC plates.
  • Visual cleanliness inspections recorded; data stratified by ED location and analyzed with Fisher exact test.

Main Results:

  • No MRSA isolates were cultured from 110 samples.
  • One probe tested positive for MSSA.
  • Probe cleanliness varied significantly by ED location (medicine 65%, trauma 33%, pediatrics 70%).

Conclusions:

  • Contrary to hypothesis, no MRSA contamination was detected on ED ultrasound probes.
  • MRSA spread via ED ultrasound machines in this high-volume urban ED appears unlikely.
  • Further multi-center research with larger sample sizes is recommended for generalizability.

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