How do you clean a scan probe?
How to Clean a Scan Probe: Ensuring Optimal Disinfection
Cleaning a scan probe is an essential step to ensuring high-level disinfection. According to the CDC, thorough cleaning is mandatory before high-level disinfection and sterilization because any remaining inorganic and organic materials can significantly interfere with the effectiveness of these processes. Proper transducer preparation is imperative to achieve optimal disinfection.
Caring for A- and B-Scans
An eye ultrasound is a test that uses high-frequency sound waves to measure and create detailed images of a patient's eye.
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Ophthalmic ultrasound units consist of a console, a foot pedal, one or two types of probes, and a keyboard (usually but not always). The probes contain piezo-electric crystals, which convert electrical energy into ultrasonic soundwaves in the frequency range of 8-80 MHz. These waves are sent to the tissue being examined and some of the waves are reflected, as echoes, back to the probe. These echoes are converted into electrical signals, which are processed to measure and create an image of the tissue.
There are two main types of ultrasonic scans. The B-scan probe is larger than the A-scan probe since it houses a small motor that sweeps the crystals back and forth to scan the eye.
A-scan. This measures the length of the eye to determine the correct power of a lens implant before cataract surgery. After the patient's eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops, the small A-scan probe is placed against the cornea to make the measurements.
B-scan. This scan provides information about the inside of the eye, usually when a patient has cataracts or other conditions that make it hard to see into the back of the eye. The B-scan probe is gently placed against the eyelids and the patient is asked to look in many different directions.
Why is Cleaning an Ultrasound Probe Necessary?
Cleaning is an essential first step in the high-level disinfection process of intracavity ultrasound transducers, such as transesophageal and endocavity probes. Properly cleaning the probe optimizes the disinfection process and ensures a high degree of protection from infectious disease transmission. Skipping or inadequately performing this step can compromise the entire disinfection or sterilization process.
Understanding Bioburden and Biofilms
Bioburden refers to the degree of microbial contamination or microbial load on an object, which could include tissue, body fluids, bacteria, or other biological material present after use on a patient. The accumulation of bioburden on used equipment is inevitable and can lead to biofilm formation. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that attach to the ultrasound probe surface and develop a barrier, making them highly resistant to disinfection and removal.
Steps for Proper Cleaning and Disinfection
Cleaning residual organic or inorganic matter left on the probe is crucial. Remaining transducer gel can act as a barrier to the high-level disinfectant and diminish the efficacy of reusable disinfectant.
- Yearly department personnel training by Infection Prevention (IP)
- New hire training by IP
- Transducers are marked by Spaulding categories
- Quarterly checks by IP
- Posted guidelines from AAMI, AIUM, CDC, TJC
Consult with your department administrator, ultrasound MIFU, and Infection Control department for your facility policy and process.
Reprocessing Based on Spaulding Classification
To determine the type of reprocessing needed for your ultrasound probe, you must categorize the probe based on the Spaulding Classification. Intracavity probes are classified as "semi-critical" and require high-level disinfection after cleaning.
Cleaning Internal Probes
AIUM recommends cleaning transducers after each examination with soap and water or quaternary ammonium sprays or wipes. Following steps are suggested:
- Disassemble (if there is a needle guide)
- Remove the probe cover
- Use a low lint cloth and pre-cleaning solution
- Rinse with tap water
- Dry with cloth/towel or air dry
- Visually inspect the transducer to ensure it's clean
Does a Probe Cover Replace Cleaning?
No, the FDA states that the use of sheaths does not change the type of processing recommended. Cleaning is required, whether reprocessing the ultrasound transducer via automated or manual high-level disinfection.
Maintaining Compliance with Infection Control Standards
- Procedure: Use a high-quality single-use transducer cover during each examination.
- Transportation: Safely transport the ultrasound probe in a covered container post-procedure.
- Pre-Clean/Clean: Remove visible bioburden from the transducer.
- High-Level Disinfection: Visit specialized resources to learn more.
- Storage: Store the device in a manner that protects from damage or contamination.
Always refer to your facility's infection control policies and protocols, as well as the probe manufacturer's Instructions for Use. Proper cleaning and disinfection of your ultrasound probes are critical to prevent infections. If you want to learn more, please visit our website chison sonoair 70.