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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

The Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS), D-FENS, and D-FEND ALL: Novel Chlorine Dioxide Decontamination Technologies for the Military
Published on: June 29, 2014
New developments in cleaning and disinfection of portable equipment
1Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, OH; Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH.
Background:
Contaminated portable medical equipment is a potential contributor to transmission of health care-associated pathogens.
Methods:
The published English literature was searched for articles on pathogen transmission by shared portable medical equipment, and on equipment cleaning and disinfection.
Results:
Simulation studies and epidemiologic investigations including whole-genome sequencing provide support for contaminated equipment as a source of transmission. In a cluster-randomized trial, daily cleaning and disinfection of shared equipment reduced health care-associated infections. Educational interventions focused on clinical staff, dedicated cleaning teams, and use of "no-touch" technologies can improve equipment cleaning and disinfection.
Conclusions:
Portable equipment and other shared devices contribute to dissemination of health care-associated pathogens. Health care facilities should develop strategies to ensure effective cleaning and disinfection of shared portable devices.
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