Identification and Analysis of Bacterial Contamination of Ultrasound Transducers and <scp>Multiuse</scp> Ultrasound Transmission Gel Bottle Tips Before and After the Aseptic Cleansing Technique

Abstract

Ultrasound transducers have a notable CR bacterial burden and may serve as potential infective vectors. Aseptic cleansing effectively eliminates most of the bacterial load from ultrasound transducers, but some bacteria persist, presenting a risk of nosocomial infection with ultrasound-guided interventions. These findings support American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine 2018 guidelines intended to ensure an appropriate level of transducer preparation based on the examination type while emphasizing rational infection control measures to minimize the risk of potential patient harm.