Bioburden on Imaging Lead Apparel and Infection Control Measures

To explore the level of bioburden and the effectiveness of the manufacturers' recommended cleaning methods on lead apparel in a radiology department.

A 2-phase experiment at a level II trauma center during a 2-year period assessed the level of bioburden on radiology lead apparel. Adenosine triphosphate swabs and a luminometer were used to measure cleanliness of high-touch areas. Cleanliness was measured before and after 3 cleaning methods were used: cleaning with a mild detergent and water; cleaning with a mild detergent, water, and then a disinfectant; and scrubbing with cleaning wipes.

Average bioburden levels exceeded facility thresholds for all areas and types of lead apparel examined. All tested cleaning methods significantly reduced bioburden.

Monthly cleaning of lead apparel provides improved cleanliness when compared with quarterly cleaning. Daily cleaning of lead apparel that will be used in a sterile environment is recommended. Future research might include examining other patient care and ancillary equipment found in the imaging department for potential bioburden and surveying technologists to examine practices for routine removal of bioburden from equipment.

Health care professionals must be aware of the potential bioburden on clinical equipment and maintain an effective cleaning practice and schedule to reduce the possibility of spreading infection.