Disinfection of ultrasonic equipment in non-isolated diagnosis area in COVID-19 epidemic situation

Abstract

Abstract: During coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic, hospitals adopt effective measures including cleaning, disinfection, isolation and personal protection, aiming to prevent nosocomial infections and control the epidemic spread. In order to minimize the risk of cross-contamination associated with ultrasound examinations, ultrasound practitioners carry out strict infection control in the isolated area, and implement standardized procedures of equipment disinfection in the non-isolated area. After cleaning and drying the equipment, ultrasound practitioners should select an appropriate disinfection method based on the respective examination or intervention. Low level disinfection, such as wiping with quaternary ammonium salt disinfecting wipes, is sufficient for standard ultrasound examinations on intact skin. High level disinfection is mandatory after endo-cavity ultrasound examinations, intervention procedures, or ultrasound examinations on infected/broken skin. In addition, disposable transducer covers and needle guides are recommended to use in such situation. Furthermore, infection risk can be reduced through adequate use of ultrasound gel, as well as decontamination of other equipment components.

Key words: ultrasound, COVID-19, disinfection, equipment, transducer

CLC Number:

R187

MENG Wei, WANG Ruo-jiao, LYU Ke, ZHANG Yi-xiu, LI Jian-chu, LI Wen-bo, WANG Ming. Disinfection of ultrasonic equipment in non-isolated diagnosis area in COVID-19 epidemic situation[J]. Basic & Clinical Medicine, 2020, 40(9): 1261-1265.

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