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Sterilizing a clinitron air-fluidized bed with colistine powder
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beilinson Medical Center, Sackler Medical School, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
Abstract:
After cross-patient infection occurred with the Clinitron bed, we looked for a way to deliver an antibiotic agent into the inner environment of the Clinitron bed through the filtering system in a manner that would sterilize the contaminated microspheres. Multiple cultures of the contaminated microspheres from the Clinitron air-fluidized bed were done, and the infecting microorganisms were identified. The appropriate antibiotic powder was delivered through the filter system of the bed, and the microspheres were recultured after treatment. After an antibiotic powder was administered, the microspheres cultured were sterile. We found that the Clinitron bed can be safely, easily, and inexpensively sterilized and reused by the administration of antibiotic agent through the air filter system. Furthermore resistant bacteria can be treated with antibiotic agent sparingly used in a clinical setting because of toxicity.
Insights
Cross-patient infections prompted a sterilization method for Clinitron beds. Antibiotic powder delivered via the air filter system effectively sterilized contaminated microspheres, allowing safe reuse of the medical equipment.
Area of Science:
- Infection control
- Medical device sterilization
- Hospital-acquired infections
Background:
- Cross-patient infections were identified originating from a Clinitron bed.
- Contaminated microspheres within the air-fluidized system were implicated in infection transmission.
- A need for effective sterilization of the Clinitron bed was established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for sterilizing Clinitron beds to prevent cross-patient infections.
- To evaluate the efficacy of delivering antibiotic agents through the filtering system.
- To ensure the safe, easy, and cost-effective reuse of Clinitron beds.
Main Methods:
- Cultures of contaminated microspheres from Clinitron beds were performed to identify microorganisms.
- Appropriate antibiotic powder was administered through the bed's air filter system.
- Post-treatment cultures of the microspheres were conducted to assess sterilization.
Main Results:
- Microorganisms responsible for Clinitron bed contamination were identified.
- Sterilization of microspheres was confirmed after antibiotic powder administration.
- The Clinitron bed was rendered sterile through this antibiotic delivery method.
Conclusions:
- The Clinitron bed can be safely, easily, and inexpensively sterilized and reused.
- Antibiotic agent administration via the air filter system is an effective sterilization technique.
- This method offers a viable approach for treating resistant bacteria with minimal antibiotic use due to toxicity concerns.