Nanosonics provide an insight into high-level disinfection of ultrasound probes, including the important factors that need to be taken into consideration to ensure effective results. In this article, they highlight the latest innovative technology that can help protect patients, staff and your equipment.
Effective high-level disinfection (HLD) of ultrasound probes is critical in protecting patients from infection risk. Through cross contamination of inadequately disinfected probes, patients can be exposed to the extensive list of pathogens implicated in healthcare-associated infections – HLD is an essential part of the fight against these. But when assessing the various methods of HLD appropriate for clinical settings, there are several considerations to take into account, to ensure the most effective results.
Automated efficacy
To effectively protect patients from infection risk, HLD needs to be successful on every probe, on every occasion of disinfection. With automated HLD systems, sensor indicators verify a range of critical parameters, including time, temperature, disinfection dosage, and concentration – all of which affect the efficacy of the wider HLD process. Automation also removes the opportunity for human error – increasing standardisation of approach across departments, hospitals, and wider healthcare settings. The AXREM, BMUS & ScoR Ultrasound Transducer Decontamination best practice summary for the United Kingdom also prioritises automated systems, continuing similar recommendations in various European guidelines:
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