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Prinzbach A, Gadsden J. Practice 'safe scans': why ultrasound transducer covers should be considered best practice. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2024:rapm-2024-105655. [PMID: 38777364 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2024-105655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Single-injection, ultrasound-guided nerve block procedures involve puncturing the skin in close proximity to an ultrasound transducer, creating a potential vector for transmission of microbial organisms when skin flora and blood come into contact with the probe. Practice patterns regarding disinfection of the transducer and the use of barrier protection are inconsistent, ranging from sterile sleeve probe covers to no cover at all. Although sleeve probe covers are easy and straightforward to use and serve to protect patients, providers and medical equipment, their utilisation remains controversial. Standardisation of their use eliminates the impact of improper or haphazard probe disinfection and makes infection control practices consistent and reproducible. This position is shared by multiple societies and authorities on ultrasound and acute care medicine. In this Daring Discourse, we outline the arguments supporting the utilisation of single-use sleeve probe covers to ensure patient safety with respect to vector-borne transmission of microbes during single-injection regional anaesthesia procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana Prinzbach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeffrey Gadsden
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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2
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AIUM Official Statement: Guidelines for Cleaning and Preparing External- and Internal-Use Ultrasound Transducers and Equipment Between Patients as Well as Safe Handling and Use of Ultrasound Coupling Gel. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:E13-E22. [PMID: 36655607 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
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3
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McInerney J, Lombardo P, Cowling C, Roberts S, Sim J. Australian sonographers' perceptions of patient safety in ultrasound imaging: Part 1 - identifying the main safety concerns, a qualitative study. ULTRASOUND (LEEDS, ENGLAND) 2023; 31:127-138. [PMID: 37144224 PMCID: PMC10152324 DOI: 10.1177/1742271x221131286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Patient safety has been an undervalued component of quality healthcare but is a challenging area of research.Ultrasound is the most common imaging modality in the world. Research on patient safety in ultrasound is generally focused on bioeffects and safe operation of ultrasound equipment. However, other safety issues exist in practice that warrant consideration.This paper forms the first part of a PhD study exploring patient safety in medical diagnostic ultrasound, beyond the notion of bioeffects.The ultimate aim of the study is to inform the final phase of the research study which will consider the next steps in improving the quality and safety of healthcare experienced by patients. Methods A qualitative study using semi-structured, one-on-one interviews. A thematic analysis categorised data into codes and generated final themes. Results A heterogeneous mix of 31 sonographers, who reflected the profile of the profession in Australia, were interviewed between September 2019 and January 2020. Seven themes emerged from the analysis. These were bioeffects, physical safety, workload, reporting, professionalism, intimate examinations and infection control. Conclusion This study presents a comprehensive analysis of sonographers' perceptions of patient safety in ultrasound imaging, not previously available in the literature. Consistent with the literature, patient safety in ultrasound tends to be viewed in technical terms through the potential for bioeffects of tissue damage or physical harm to the patient. However, other patient safety issues have emerged, and while not as well recognised, have the potential to negatively impact on patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jenny Sim
- Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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4
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Transgender health and medicine – Are radiological devices prepared? Eur J Radiol 2022; 151:110320. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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5
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Sidi M, Sani GM, Ya’u A, Zira JD, Loshugno SS, Luntsi G. The current status of ultrasound practice in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-021-00509-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Ultrasound has been in clinical use to image the human body for over half a century. An audit should be performed on professional practice aimed at taking corrective measures where errors are identified and improvement in the practice when errors are not detected. This study is aimed at evaluating the current status of ultrasound practice in Kano metropolis, Nigeria.
Results
Out of the 70 (100%) administered questionnaires, 68 (97.14%) were returned, and 64 (91.43%) were properly filled. Fifty-eight (90.6%) knew the exact meaning of ultrasound, and 34 (53%) considered ultrasound as a modality of choice for imaging and diagnosis of abdominal masses. None of the participants was exposed to advanced ultrasound technology. Only 3 (4.7%) and 5 (7.8%) of the respondents performed infection control, air reverberation pattern and electronic noise checks.
Conclusion
Ultrasound practitioners demonstrate good knowledge of ultrasound and its application. However, there was unavailability of advanced ultrasound equipment. There was also poor understanding and practice of quality assurance among practitioners. Ultrasound equipment might have been grossly underutilized and qualities of images produced by the equipment are not certain were optimal.
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6
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Möllers M, Wagner J, Oelmeier K, Braun J, Schmitz R. [Disinfection of transvaginal ultrasound probes-A current overview of methods and recommendations]. DER GYNAKOLOGE 2021; 54:688-693. [PMID: 34248176 PMCID: PMC8261395 DOI: 10.1007/s00129-021-04824-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Disinfection of ultrasound probes, especially of transvaginal probes, has been under discussion during recent years and there have been several new regulations and recommendations as well as trends in the field of disinfection methods. This article provides a review and summary of the current state of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Möllers
- Bereich Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Johanna Wagner
- Bereich Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Kathrin Oelmeier
- Bereich Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Janina Braun
- Bereich Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Ralf Schmitz
- Bereich Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
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7
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Matoori S, Khurana B, Balcom MC, Froehlich JM, Janssen S, Forstner R, King AD, Koh DM, Gutzeit A. Addressing intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond: how radiologists can make a difference. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:2126-2131. [PMID: 33021703 PMCID: PMC7537584 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-07332-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries both in Europe and across the world implemented strict stay-at-home orders. These measures helped to slow the spread of the coronavirus but also led to increased mental and physical health issues for the domestically confined population, including an increase in the occurrence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in many countries. IPV is defined as behavior that inflicts physical, psychological, or sexual harm within an intimate relationship. We believe that as radiologists, we can make a difference by being cognizant of this condition, raising an alert when appropriate and treating suspected victims with care and empathy. The aim of this Special Report is to raise awareness of IPV among radiologists and to suggest strategies by which to identify and support IPV victims. KEY POINTS: • The COVID-19 pandemic led to a marked increase in the number of intimate partner violence (IPV) cases, potentially leading to increased emergency department visits and radiological examinations. • Most IPV-related fractures affect the face, fingers, and upper trunk, and may easily be misinterpreted as routine trauma. • Radiologists should carefully review the medical history of suspicious cases, discuss the suspicion with the referring physician, and proactively engage in a private conversation with the patient, pointing to actionable resources for IPV victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Matoori
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Cancer Center St. Anna Klinik Luzern, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland.
- Department of Radiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Bharti Khurana
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marta Chadwick Balcom
- Community Health Intervention and Prevention Programs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Johannes M Froehlich
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Cancer Center St. Anna Klinik Luzern, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Clinical Research Group, Klus Apotheke Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Janssen
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rosemarie Forstner
- Department of Radiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ann D King
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Dow-Mu Koh
- Department of Radiology, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton, UK
| | - Andreas Gutzeit
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Cancer Center St. Anna Klinik Luzern, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland.
- Department of Radiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Wataganara T, Ruangvutilert P, Sunsaneevithayakul P, Sutantawibul A, Chuchotirot M, Phattanachindakun B, Russameecharoen K. Minimizing cross transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in obstetric ultrasound during COVID-19 pandemic. J Perinat Med 2020; 48:931-942. [PMID: 32681782 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2020-0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-associated infection (COVID-19) is affecting populations worldwide. This statement may serve as guidance for infection prevention and safe ultrasound practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ultrasound examination is a fundamental part of obstetric care, yet it is a potential vector for transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Decontamination methods should always be implemented for ultrasound equipment, especially in the presence of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases. There must be workflow policies to protect pregnant women and healthcare providers from nosocomial cross transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Cleaning and disinfecting of equipment must be in accordance with their potential of pathogen transmission. Consider using telemedicine and genetic technologies as an adjunctive of obstetric ultrasound to reduce patient crowding. Patient triage and education of healthcare providers of infection prevention are crucial to minimize cross contamination of SARS-CoV-2 during obstetric ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuangsit Wataganara
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornpimol Ruangvutilert
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prasert Sunsaneevithayakul
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Anuwat Sutantawibul
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Monsak Chuchotirot
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Buraya Phattanachindakun
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kusol Russameecharoen
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
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Patient safety in medical imaging: A joint paper of the European Society of Radiology (ESR) and the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Radiography (Lond) 2019; 25:e26-e38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2019.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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10
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Patient Safety in Medical Imaging: a joint paper of the European Society of Radiology (ESR) and the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS). Insights Imaging 2019; 10:45. [PMID: 30949870 PMCID: PMC6449408 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-019-0721-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The fundamental professional roles of radiographers and radiologists are focused on providing benefit to patients with our skills, while maintaining their safety at all times. There are numerous patient safety issues in radiology which must be considered. These encompass: protection from direct harm arising from the techniques and technologies we use; ensuring physical and psychological well-being of patients while under our care; maintaining the highest possible quality of service provision; and protecting the staff to ensure they can deliver safe services. This paper summarises the key categories of safety issues in the provision of radiology services, from the joint perspectives of radiographers and radiologists, and provides references for further reading in all major relevant areas.This is a joint statement of the European Society of Radiology (ESR) and the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS), published simultaneously in Insights into Imaging [DOI:10.1186/s13244-019-0721-y] and Radiography (DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2019.01.009).
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11
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Prats MI, Nelson BP, Gold DL, Branditz LD, Boulger CT, Bahner DP. CLEAR: A Novel Approach to Ultrasound Equipment Homeostasis. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2019; 38:767-773. [PMID: 30121948 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Protocols for the sanitation and maintenance of point-of-care ultrasound (US) equipment are lacking. This study introduces the CLEAR protocol (clean, locate, energize, augment supplies, and remove patient identifiers) as a tool to improve the readiness of US equipment, termed US equipment homeostasis. The state of US equipment homeostasis in the emergency department of a single academic center was investigated before and after implementing this protocol, with an improvement in outcomes. These findings demonstrate that the CLEAR protocol can improve US homeostasis. CLEAR can function as a teaching tool to promote homeostasis as well as a checklist to assess compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael I Prats
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Bret P Nelson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Emergency Ultrasound, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Delia L Gold
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Lauren D Branditz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Creagh T Boulger
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - David P Bahner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Pearlman O. Reviewing the Use of Glutaraldehyde for High-level Disinfection by Sonographers. JOURNAL OF DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/8756479318813361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A review of recent literature has demonstrated that ultrasound transducers may harbor bacteria and viruses that could cause cross-contamination for patients. Reducing the risk of cross-contamination is achieved by high-level disinfection of ultrasound transducers. One of the main types of high-level disinfectants (HLD) used in performing sonography is glutaraldehyde (GA). While GA-based HLDs are cleared in abundance by the FDA and compatible with most transducers, GA has been reported to cause extensive adverse effects and has limited efficacy as a disinfectant. This literature review provides a current set of studies that discuss high-level disinfection of ultrasound transducers, GA use, exposure, and alternatives. This information could be used by practitioners to carefully consider how to effectively clean ultrasound transducers and supporting equipment. Additional guidance is provided on how to potentially minimize GA exposure and suggestions for protecting patients during their imaging examination.
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13
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Gutzeit A, Steffen F, Gutzeit J, Gutzeit J, Kos S, Pfister S, Berlinger L, Anderegg M, Reischauer C, Funke I, Froehlich JM, Koh DM, Orasch C. Would it be safe to have a dog in the MRI scanner before your own examination? A multicenter study to establish hygiene facts related to dogs and men. Eur Radiol 2018; 29:527-534. [PMID: 30062526 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-018-5648-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether it would be hygienic to evaluate dogs and humans in the same MRI scanner. METHODS We compared the bacterial load in colony-forming units (CFU) of human-pathogenic microorganisms in specimens taken from 18 men and 30 dogs. In addition, we compared the extent of bacterial contamination of an MRI scanner shared by dogs and humans with two other MRI scanners used exclusively by humans. RESULTS Our study shows a significantly higher bacterial load in specimens taken from men's beards compared with dogs' fur (p = 0.036). All of the men (18/18) showed high microbial counts, whereas only 23/30 dogs had high microbial counts and 7 dogs moderate microbial counts. Furthermore, human-pathogenic microorganisms were more frequently found in human beards (7/18) than in dog fur (4/30), although this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.074). More microbes were found in human oral cavities than in dog oral cavities (p < 0.001). After MRI of dogs, routine scanner disinfection was undertaken and the CFU found in specimens isolated from the MRI scanning table and receiver coils showed significantly lower bacteria count compared with "human" MRI scanners (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our study shows that bearded men harbour significantly higher burden of microbes and more human-pathogenic strains than dogs. As the MRI scanner used for both dogs and humans was routinely cleaned after animal scanning, there was substantially lower bacterial load compared with scanners used exclusively for humans. KEY POINTS • Bearded men harbour significantly more microbes than dogs. • Dogs are no risk to humans if they use the same MRI. • Deficits in hospital hygiene are a relevant risk for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Gutzeit
- Department of Radiology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria. .,Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland. .,Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5 / 10, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Frank Steffen
- Section of Small Animal Surgery/Neurology, Tierklinik Obergrund, Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Juri Gutzeit
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Junus Gutzeit
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Kos
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Pfister
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Livia Berlinger
- Microbiology Laboratory, Bioanalytica and Bioexam AG, Maihofstrasse 95A, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Anderegg
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Carolin Reischauer
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Ilona Funke
- Head of General Management Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Johannes M Froehlich
- Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna-Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland.,Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5 / 10, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dow-Mu Koh
- Department of Radiology, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton, Surrey, UK
| | - Christina Orasch
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, St. Anna Strasse 32, 6006, Lucerne, Switzerland
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Nyhsen CM, Humphreys H, Koerner RJ, Grenier N, Brady A, Sidhu P, Nicolau C, Mostbeck G, D’Onofrio M, Gangi A, Claudon M. Infection prevention and control in ultrasound - best practice recommendations from the European Society of Radiology Ultrasound Working Group. Insights Imaging 2017; 8:523-535. [PMID: 29181694 PMCID: PMC5707224 DOI: 10.1007/s13244-017-0580-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of these recommendations is to highlight the importance of infection prevention and control in ultrasound (US), including diagnostic and interventional settings. METHODS Review of available publications and discussion within a multidisciplinary group consistent of radiologists and microbiologists, in consultation with European patient and industry representatives. RECOMMENDATIONS Good basic hygiene standards are essential. All US equipment must be approved prior to first use, including hand held devices. Any equipment in direct patient contact must be cleaned and disinfected prior to first use and after every examination. Regular deep cleaning of the entire US machine and environment should be undertaken. Faulty transducers should not be used. As outlined in presented flowcharts, low level disinfection is sufficient for standard US on intact skin. For all other minor and major interventional procedures as well as all endo-cavity US, high level disinfection is mandatory. Dedicated transducer covers must be used when transducers are in contact with mucous membranes or body fluids and sterile gel should be used inside and outside covers. CONCLUSIONS Good standards of basic hygiene and thorough decontamination of all US equipment as well as appropriate use of US gel and transducer covers are essential to keep patients safe. MAIN MESSAGES • Transducers must be cleaned/disinfected before first use and after every examination. • Low level disinfection is sufficient for standard US on intact skin. • High level disinfection is mandatory for endo-cavity US and all interventions. • Dedicated transducer covers must be used for endo-cavity US and all interventions. • Sterile gel should be used for all endo-cavity US and all interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane M. Nyhsen
- Radiology Department, City Hospitals Sunderland, Kayll Road, Sunderland, SR4 7TP UK
| | - Hilary Humphreys
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Microbiology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roland J. Koerner
- Infection Prevention and Control Department, Department of Microbiology, City Hospitals Sunderland, Kayll Road, Sunderland, SR4 7TP UK
| | - Nicolas Grenier
- Service d’Imagerie Diagnostique et Interventionnelle de l’Adulte Groupe Hospitalier, Pellegrin Place Amelie Raba-Leon, 33076 Bordeaux, Cedex France
| | - Adrian Brady
- Department of Radiology, Mercy University Hospital, Grenville Place, Cork, T12 WE28 Ireland
| | - Paul Sidhu
- King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RS UK
| | | | | | - Mirko D’Onofrio
- Radiology, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, VERONA, piazzale LA SCURO 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Afshin Gangi
- NHC, 1, Place de l’Hôpital, 67091 Strasbourg, France
| | - Michel Claudon
- Children Hospital, University Hospital - Nancy Brabois, Rue du Morvan, 54511 Vandoeuvre Les Nancy, Cedex France
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