Risk of cross transmission with point-of-care ultrasound system: effect of a glass-sealed control panel on microbial contamination

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2014 Dec;35(12):1539-42. doi: 10.1086/678598. Epub 2014 Nov 10.

Abstract

Contamination of a point-of-care ultrasound system (POCUS) mainly involved electrocardiography accessories and included pathogenic microorganisms. The use of a glass-sealed control panel significantly facilitated its cleaning and reduced its bacterial contamination compared with a standard control panel. Overall hand hygiene compliance during examinations with POCUS was poor.

MeSH terms

  • Bacteria / classification
  • Bacteria / isolation & purification
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious / prevention & control
  • Electrocardiography / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Contamination / prevention & control*
  • Hand Hygiene / standards
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods
  • Infection Control / standards
  • Point-of-Care Systems