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Ultrasound Infection Prevention: What's New?
Keyword(s)
1504-2023, Ecolab, Ultrasound, Infection Prevention, nurse, surgical tech, probe cover, IAHCSMM, NCCT, HSPA, CBSPD, radiology, sterile processing, infection preventionist, medical device, transvaginal, transrectal, transesophageal echocardiography, TEE, anorectal, As Low As reasonably Achievable, ALARA, endocavity, Spaulding Classification, critical, semi-critical, non-critical, disinfection, sterilization, ultrasound gel, High-Level Disinfection, HLD, Ultraviolet, UV-C, contaminatin, decontamination
Credits
CA:2.0, CBSPD:2.0, HSPA:2.0, NCCT:2.0
Description
The widespread use of ultrasound in radiology, obstetrics, gynecology, gastroenterology, urology, ophthalmology, cardiology, and other specialties has aided progress as a diagnostic tool and improved clinical outcomes. Ultrasound probes are used in nearly all departments in clinical settings including point of care situations such as the bedside and remote clinics. Along with increased usage of this medical device that requires appropriate processing between patients come the additional responsibility of every person working in the ultrasound department to employ best practices to prevent the transmission of infection. The duty extends to leaders and administrative staff to ensure that practice reflects current recommendations and guidelines to ensure the safety of all patients and employees.
Additionally, Infection Preventionists along with front line specialists are well placed to act as major drivers of change, reviewing practice related to probe use and reprocessing. When policy and practice does not comply with guidelines, policy and training should be updated to ensure patient safety.