Jinekoloji kliniklerinde ultrasonografi probları ve jeli, bakteriyel enfeksiyonların kaynağı olabilir mi?: Üçüncü basamak bir hastane deneyimi

Background: The aim was to evaluate the bacterial contamination rate of ultrasound probes and gels and the associated nosocomial infection risk. In this way, we aimed to assess whether our ultrasound probe disinfection protocols were effective in reducing the risk of hospital-wide infection. Material and Methods: Forty-eight swab samples were collected from the surfaces of transabdominal (TAP) and transvaginal ultrasound (TVP) probes and adhered to gel bottles, which were then cultured in the microbiology laboratory. In comparison, bacterial contamination of gynecology room door handles (12 swab cultures) was analyzed. These measurements were repeated every week for one month, so that each probe was cultured four times during the study period. Results: Non-pathogenic microorganisms (Staphylococcus epidermidis, S. hominis, S. haemolyticus, S. lugdunensis, Corynebacterium amycolatum, C. aurimucosum) common in human skin flora and the environment and two notable pathogens (Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli) were isolated from the probe cultures. Non-pathogenic organisms (S. epidermidis, S. cohnii) were isolated from gel cultures. Also, no significant differences were also found between groups in contamination rates during various patient examinations and emergencies (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Bacterial contamination was found on ultrasound probes/gels in our department. Although the majority were non-pathogenic microorganisms, two pathogenic microorganisms were also identified. Hospital staff should remember that ultrasound probes can be a tool for bacterial infection and can lead to infectious complications. Decontamination of probes with dry, nonsterile paper towels is a cheap, simple, and effective method that does not damage the device and can also reduce bacterial exposure.