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Journal of Medical Ultrasonics
Published in: Journal of Medical Ultrasonics 1/2012

01-01-2012 | Original Article

Evaluation of procedures for decontaminating ultrasound probes

Authors: Shunji Hayashi, Harumi Koibuchi, Nobuyuki Taniguchi, Yoshikazu Hirai

Published in: Journal of Medical Ultrasonics | Issue 1/2012

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Abstract

Purpose

To determine suitable procedures for decontaminating ultrasound probes.

Methods

We investigated bacterial transmission via ultrasound probes that were not wiped, wiped with a plain paper towel, or wiped with an ethanol-soaked paper towel.

Results

The unwiped probes transmitted large numbers of bacteria, which were markedly reduced by wiping the probes with a plain paper towel, and almost completely eliminated by wiping with an ethanol-soaked paper towel.

Conclusion

Improperly decontaminated ultrasound probes can transmit bacteria among patients. Ultrasound probes should be decontaminated by wiping with a paper towel after examinations to prevent bacterial transmission. Plain or ethanol-soaked paper towels should be used depending on the situation.
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Metadata
Title
Evaluation of procedures for decontaminating ultrasound probes
Authors
Shunji Hayashi
Harumi Koibuchi
Nobuyuki Taniguchi
Yoshikazu Hirai
Publication date
01-01-2012
Publisher
Springer Japan
Published in
Journal of Medical Ultrasonics / Issue 1/2012
Print ISSN: 1346-4523
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2254
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10396-011-0332-9

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