Journal of radiological science and technology (대한방사선기술학회지:방사선기술과학)

Korean Society of Radiological Science (대한방사선과학회)
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Bacterial Contamination of Surfaces in an Ultrasound Room

초음파실 표면의 세균 오염평가

  • Kim, Hee-jeong (Department of Gynecological Cancer Center, CHA Bundang Medical Center) ;
  • Choi, Yujin (Department of Radiological Science, Shinhan University) ;
  • Lee, Chang-Lae (Department of Radiological Science, Yonsei University)
  • 김희정 (분당차병원 부인암센터) ;
  • 최유진 (신한대학교 방사선학과) ;
  • 이창래 (연세대학교 방사선학과)
  • Received : 2021.05.06
  • Accepted : 2021.06.28
  • Published : 2021.06.30
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Abstract

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the importance of hospital hygiene and infection control in hospital settings. To raise hygiene awareness among ultrasound technicians, we evaluated the hygiene status of an ultrasound room, in comparison with that of objects used in daily life. Using the swab method, the following surfaces were examined: eight surfaces in the ultrasound room including the ultrasound probes (convex, linear, sector, 3D), ultrasound track ball, ultrasound keyboard, ultrasound gel (sealed and in use) and pillow as well as four surfaces of everyday objects including subway handles, common computer keyboards, common computer mouse, and cell phones. The streak plate technique was used for inoculation into media, which was observed for the formation of bacterial colonies following incubation for 24 h. Six bacterial strains were detected from objects used in the ultrasound room, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Four strains of bacteria were detected on surfaces of everyday objects. The equipment and accessories used in an ultrasound room can act as vehicles for infecting patients. Establishment of standardized hygiene protocols and periodic training of the staff are recommended to avoid cross-infection.

Keywords

References

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