Update: ACEP has written guidelines as of June 2018 – find it here
In an official statement by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), they updated their guidelines on cleaning probes: Read below:
“The purpose of this document is to provide guidance regarding the cleaning and preparation of external and internal ultrasound probes. Some manufacturers use the term “transducers” or “imaging arrays.”
Medical instruments fall into different categories with respect to their potential for pathogen transmission. The most critical instruments are those that are intended to penetrate skin or mucous membranes. These require sterilization. Less critical instruments (often called “semicritical” instruments) that simply come into contact with mucous membranes, such as fiber-optic endoscopes, require high-level disinfection rather than sterilization. “Noncritical” devices come into contact with intact skin but not mucous membranes.
External probes that only come into contact with clean, intact skin are considered noncritical devices and require cleaning after every use as described below.
All internal probes should be covered with a single-use barrier. If condoms are used as barriers, they should be nonlubricated and nonmedicated. Although internal ultrasound probes are routinely protected by single-use disposable probe covers, leakage rates of 0.9% to 2% for condoms and 8% to 81% for commercial probe covers have been observed in recent studies (Rutala and Weber, 2011). These probes are therefore classified as semicritical devices.
Note: Practitioners should be aware that condoms have been shown to be less prone to leakage than commercial probe covers and have a 6-fold enhanced acceptable quality level (AQL) when compared to standard examination gloves. They have an AQL equal to that of surgical gloves. Users should be aware of latex sensitivity issues and have non-latex-containing barriers available.
For maximum safety, one should therefore perform high-level disinfection of the probe between each use and use a probe cover or condom as an aid to keep the probe clean. For the purpose of this document, “internal probes” refer to all vaginal, rectal, and transesophageal probes, as well as intraoperative probes and all probes that are in contact with bodily fluids/blood or have a remote chance to be in contact with dry/cracked skin and body fluids, including blood.
Definitions
All cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization represent a statistical reduction in the number of microbes present on a surface rather than their complete elimination. Meticulous cleaning of the instrument is the key to an initial reduction of the microbial/organic load by at least 99%. This cleaning is followed by a disinfecting procedure to ensure a high degree of protection from infectious disease transmission, even if a disposable barrier covers the instrument during use.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities” (2008):
“Cleaning is the removal of visible soil (eg, organic and inorganic material) from objects and surfaces and normally is accomplished manually or mechanically using water with detergents or enzymatic products. Thorough cleaning is essential before high-level disinfection and sterilization because inorganic and organic material that remains on the surfaces of instruments interfere with the effectiveness of these processes.”
“Disinfection describes a process that eliminates many or all pathogenic microorganisms, except bacterial spores.”
Low-Level Disinfection—Destruction of most bacteria, some viruses, and some fungi. Low-level disinfection will not necessarily inactivate Mycobacterium tuberculosis or bacterial spores.
Mid-Level Disinfection—Inactivation of M Tuberculosis, bacteria, most viruses, most fungi, and some bacterial spores.
High-Level Disinfection—Destruction/removal of all microorganisms except bacterial spores.
“Sterilization describes a process that destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life and is carried out in healthcare facilities by physical or chemical methods. Steam under pressure, dry heat, ethylene oxide (EtO) gas, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, and liquid chemicals are the principal sterilizing agents used in health-care facilities. . . . When chemicals are used to destroy all forms of microbiologic life, they can be called chemical sterilants. These same germicides used for shorter exposure periods also can be part of the disinfection process (ie, high-level disinfection).”
The following specific recommendations are made for the cleaning and preparation of all ultrasound probes. Users should also review the CDC document on sterilization and disinfection of medical devices to be certain that their procedures conform to the CDC principles for disinfection of patient care equipment.
1. Cleaning—Transducers should be cleaned after each examination with soap and water or quaternary ammonium (a low-level disinfectant) sprays or wipes. The probes must be disconnected from the ultrasound scanner for anything more than wiping or spray cleaning. After removal of the probe cover (when applicable), use running water to remove any residual gel or debris from the probe. Use a damp gauze pad or other soft cloth and a small amount of mild nonabrasive liquid soap (household dish-washing liquid is ideal) to thoroughly cleanse the probe. Consider the use of a small brush, especially for crevices and areas of angulation, depending on the design of the particular probe. Rinse the probe thoroughly with running water, and then dry the probe with a soft cloth or paper towel.
2. Disinfection—As noted above, all internal probes (eg, vaginal, rectal, and transesophageal probes) as well as intraoperative probes require high-level disinfection before they can be used on another patient.
For the protection of the patient and the health care worker, all internal examinations should be performed with the operator properly gloved throughout the procedure. As the probe cover is removed, care should be taken not to contaminate the probe with secretions from the patient. At the completion of the procedure, hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and water. Gloves should be used to remove the probe cover and to clean the probe as described above.
Note: An obvious disruption in condom integrity does not require modification of this protocol. Because of the potential disruption of the barrier sheath, high-level disinfection with chemical agents is necessary. The following guidelines take into account possible probe contamination due to a disruption in the barrier sheath.
After removal of the probe cover, clean the transducer as described above. Cleaning with a detergent/water solution as described above is important as the first step in proper disinfection, since chemical disinfectants act more rapidly on clean and dry surfaces. Wet surfaces dilute the disinfectant.
High-level liquid disinfection is required to ensure further statistical reduction in the microbial load. Examples of such high-level disinfectants are listed in Table 1. A complete list of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared liquid sterilants and high-level disinfectants is available at http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm194429.htm, and other agents are under investigation.
To achieve high-level disinfection, the practice must meet or exceed the listed “High-Level Disinfectant Contact Conditions” specified for each product. Users should be aware that not all approved disinfectants on this list are safe for all ultrasound probes.
The CDC recommends environmental infection control in the case of Clostridium difficile, consisting of “meticulous cleaning followed by disinfection using hypochlorite-based germicides as appropriate” (CDC, 2008). The current introduction and initial marketing of a hydrogen peroxide nanodroplet emulsion might provide an effective high-level disinfectant without toxicity.
Table 1. Sterilants and High-Level Disinfectants Listed by the FDA
| Name | Composition/Action |
| Glutaraldehyde | Organic compound (CH2(CH2CHO)2) Induces cell death by cross-linking cellular proteins; usually used alone or mixed with formaldehyde |
| Hydrogen peroxide | Inorganic compound (H2O2) Antiseptic and antibacterial; a very strong oxidizer with oxidation potential of 1.8 V |
| Peracetic acid | Organic compound (CH3CO3H) Antimicrobial agent (high oxidization potential) |
| Ortho-Phthalaldehyde | Organic compound (C6H4(CHO)2) strong binding to outer cell wall of contaminant organisms |
| Hypochlorite/hypochlorous acid | inorganic compound (HClO) Myeloperoxidase-mediated peroxidation of chloride ions |
| Phenol/phenolate | Organic compound (C6H5OH) Antiseptic |
| Hibidil | Chlorhexidine gluconate (C22H30Cl2N10) Chemical antiseptic |
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration as well as the Joint Commission (Environment of Care Standard IC 02.02.01 EP 9) have issued guidelines for exposure to chemical agents, which might be used for ultrasound probe cleaning. Before selecting a high-level disinfectant, users should request the Material Safety Data Sheet for the product and make sure that their facility is able to meet the necessary conditions to minimize exposure (via inhalation, ingestion, or contact through skin/eyes) to potentially dangerous substances. Proper ventilation, a positive-pressure local environment, and the use of personal protective devices (eg, gloves and face/eye protection) may be required.
Immersion of probes in fluids requires attention to the individual device’s ability to be submerged. Although some scan heads as well as large portions of the cable may safely be immersed up to the connector to the ultrasound scanner, only the scan heads of others may be submerged. Some manufacturers also note that the crystals of the array may be damaged if, instead of suspending the probe in the disinfectant, it rests on the bottom of the container. Before selecting a method of disinfection, consult the instrument manufacturer regarding the compatibility of the to-be-used agent with the probes. Relevant information is available online and in device manuals. Additionally, not all probes can be cleaned with the same cleaning agents. Although some agents are compatible with all probes of a given manufacturer, others must be limited to a subset of probes.
After soaking the probe in an approved disinfectant for the specified time, the probe should be thoroughly rinsed (especially to remove traces of toxic disinfectants in the case of ortho-phthalaldehyde) and dried.
Summary
Adequate probe preparation is mandatory. The level of preparation depends on the type of examination performed. Routine high-level disinfection of internal probes between patients is mandatory, plus the use of a high-quality single-use probe cover during each examination is required to properly protect patients from infection. It would be reassuring for the user to be able to consult manufacturer’s instructions, particularly those that have been validated by the manufacturer for sterilizing devices. Preparation of external probes between patients is less critical and reduced to a low-level disinfection process. For all chemical disinfectants, precautions must be taken to protect workers and patients from the toxicity of the disinfectant.
The AIUM does not endorse or promote any specific commercial products. It is the responsibility of each entity to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, law, and regulations.
Suggested Reading
- Amis S, Ruddy M, Kibbler CC, Economides DL, MacLean AB. Assessment of condoms as probe covers for transvaginal sonography. J Clin Ultrasound 2000; 28:295-298.
- Bloc S, Garnier T, Bounhiol C, et al. Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anaesthesia: An Effective Method for Cleaning the Probes. Quincy-Sous-Sénart, France: Service d’Anesthésie, Hôpital Privé Claude-Galien; 2010.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Hospital Infections Program. National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance (NNIS) report, data summary from October 1986-April 1996: a report from the NNIS system. Am J Infect Control 1996; 24:380-388.
- Frazee BW, Fahimi J, Lambert L, Nagdev A. Emergency department ultrasonographic probe contamination and experimental model of probe disinfection. Ann Emerg Med 2011; 58:56-63.
- Hignett M, Claman P. High rates of perforation are found in endovaginal ultrasound probe covers before and after oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 1995; 12:606-609.
- Kac G, Podglajen I, Si-Mohamed A, Rodi A, Grataloup C, Meyer G. Evaluation of Ultraviolet C for Disinfection of Endocavitary Ultrasound Transducers Persistently Contaminated Despite Probe Covers. Paris, France: Hygiène Hospitalière; 2010
- Koibuchi H, Fujii Y, Kotani K, et al. Degradation of ultrasound probes caused by disinfection with alcohol. J Med Ultrason 2011; 38:97-100.
- Milki AA, Fisch JD. Vaginal ultrasound probe cover leakage: implications for patient care. Fertil Steril 1998; 69:409-411.
- Mirza WA, Imam SH, Kharal MS, et al. Cleaning methods for ultrasound probes. J Coll Physicians Surg Pak 2008; 18:286-289.
- Muradali D, Gold WL, Phillips A, Wilson S. Can ultrasound probes and coupling gel be a source of nosocomial infection in patients undergoing sonography? An in vivo and in vitro study. AJR Am J Roentgenol 1995; 164:1521-1524.
- Rooks VJ, Yancey MK, Elg SA, Brueske L. Comparison of probe sheaths for endovaginal sonography. Obstet Gynecol 1996; 87:27-29.
- Rutala WA, Weber DJ. Sterilization, high-level disinfection, and environmental cleaning. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2011; 25:45-76.
- Whitehead EJ, Thompson JF, Lewis DR. Contamination and decontamination of Doppler probes. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2006; 88:479-481.
Related Websites
- US Food and Drug Administration. Cleared liquid chemical sterilants/high-level disinfectants US FDA website; March 03, 2010. http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm194429.htm.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guideline for disinfection and sterilization in healthcare facilities, 2008. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website; 2008. http://www.cdc.gov/hicpac/pdf/guidelines/Disinfection_Nov_2008.pdf.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Hospital eTool: clinical services. Occupational Safety and Health Administration website. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/hospital/clinical/pt/pt.html.
SonoSpot: Topics in Bedside Ultrasound 
Hello
I am just wondering what is the process to sterilize portable endovaginal ultrasound probe?
Dear Zinat – Please see the link to the guidelines that will give you all the info
Dear Sonospot,
For ultrasound for vascular access, is it advisable to use a sterile single use probe cover WITH a single use satchet of lubricant (‘optilube’) as ultrasound gel? The gel itself is sterile, however the packaging is not. Is there any evidence or guidance on this subject – authoritive enough to change practice?
Dear James – Thanks for the comment and question – Assuming you are talking about peripheral vascular access? It is “optimal” for infection prevention to use a sterile probe cover with sterile single use gel. Having the small packages of single use gel is great for any department who uses US for peripheral vascular access. Many feel that the probe covers are too large and cumbersome, so some have instead used tegaderm to cover the linear probe that has a small amount of gel on the tip between the probe and the tegaderm. It can get sticky and using the sanitary wipes after wards can help prevent prolonged stickiness. Hope that helps.
Hi James.
The CDC and FDA guidelines are clear on this point. Ultrasound probes use in procedures where the skin is compromised (non-intact) or risk contacting blood or body fluids are either considered critical or semi-critical medical devices. In either case, a sterile probe cover and sterile gel should be used. Both the CDC and FDA recommend that if possible, these probes should be sterilized before use and if sterilization is not possible, then high-level disinfection is minimally acceptable if a sterile probe cover is used. In the United States, all commercially available wipes and sprays are low-level disinfectants only.
While it does seem that Tegaderm dressings offer a convenient solution, it is possible that some TJC surveyors and others may consider their use as a protective barrier during a sterile procedure, “off-label” and a departure from the federal guidelines. I would check with your Infection Prevention team on that one.
It should be stated that a couple of professional organizations (ACEP, AIUM) have proposed disinfection recommendations that differ from the CDC/FDA guidelines – going so far as to say that the Spaulding Classification does not apply to ultrasound probes in instances where probes are used to guide percutaneous procedures.
The CDC and FDA purposefully use broad terms – Again, assuming what is meant by vascular access is “peripheral” then sterilization, high level, and sterile probe cover, although technically optimal, may not be what institutions require. This would make it impossible for an emergency department, ICU or OR to function effectively. Jonathan, may I ask what environment you work in? How have you found these rigid recommendations in practice?
Dear Jonathan and sonospot,
We use a sterile probe cover (actually it is a sterile cover for an endoscope ) with optilube, which is technically sterile, however the outer packet is not. Is there any guidance for this? We work in the UK so international guidance would be especially useful.
Thank you
James – is this central or peripheral access? For central access then sterile gel is required. There are no international guidelines across countries, but I would recommend speaking to infection control at your institution to see their requirements.
Thank you for your comment! It’s important to have team-members engaged on doing what is best practice.
However, this may be a misapplication/interpretation of 2008 verbiage never intended for this reason.
As a routine, ultrasounds used with sterile probe cover for central lines and such in ICU need only low level disinfection
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/jum.15653
Hello Leon,
Thank you for your reply. I respect your opinion on this. It is the same opinion shared by the AIUM and ACEP in their position statements on probe disinfection. I also agree that the national guidelines from the CDC are vague and open for interpretation. At the end of the day, organizations will need to decide what the best and safest level of care they want to provide for their patients.
As a standardized approach to infection prevention and control standards, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recognizes a hierarchical approach to understanding and establishing appropriate organizational disinfection policies. According to the CMS, policy structure should begin the federal rules and regulations (FDA), followed by the ultrasound manufacturer instructions-for-use (IFU’s) and then be supported by evidence-based guidelines (CDC) and national standards (AAMI, ECRI). Also, a part of the hierarchy are consensus documents, position statements (SDMS, AIUM, SIR, ACEP), and standards of practice supported by the various professional societies.
To break it down further and using the approach as recommended by CMS:
Rules and Regulations:
The FDA states that if possible, ultrasound transducers should be sterilized before they are to guide procedures If sterilization is not possible, then high-level disinfection (HLD) is minimally acceptable if a sterile probe sheath is used to cover the probe. The FDA further notes that the use of a sheath does not change the type of reprocessing that is recommended for the transducer.
Ultrasound Manufacturer IFU’s:
Philips, GE, Sonosite, Samsung
Specifically state the HLD is necessary and each IFU refers to the Spaulding classification (they can all be found on their respective websites). There may be others, but these are the ones I can remember for now.
National Standards and Guidelines
CDC guidelines
They are vague and do not specifically mention probes used for guiding vascular access but do recognize the Spaulding Classification as their basis and state that reusable medical devices that may contact otherwise sterile tissue or non-intact skin – should be sterile if possible. They further state that high-level disinfection is minimally acceptable if a sterile cover is used.
AAMI Standards
The standards of practice established by AAMI consider both the FDA regulations and CDC guidelines and also state that devices that may contact sterile tissue or non-intact skin should be sterilized, if possible. They further state that if sterilization is not feasible, then the device, at a minimum, should be subjected to high-level disinfection.
ECRI Standards
The ECRI Institute recognizes the Spaulding classification system and states that probes are classified as noncritical, semicritical, or critical, based on their clinical applications and potential for cross-contamination. ECRI further states that transducers and needle guides used for interventional procedures are considered critical devices because they may come in contact with needles and other instruments that penetrate sterile tissue. According to ECRI, probes categorized as critical devices should be sterilized before use and if sterilization is not possible, then high-level disinfection is acceptable if a form-fitting sterile cover is used during the procedure.
Consensus Documents and Position Statements
AIUM – HLD is not necessary. The Spaulding classification does not apply to probes. Though they do state that if you can predict that your probe cover will fail, then you should high-level disinfect the probe before use.
SDMS – Recognizes the Spaulding classification system and recommends high-level disinfection when probes are used to guide percutaneous procedures.
ACEP – HLD is not necessary. Low-level disinfection is fine.
SIR/AORN – guided procedures should follow absolute sterile technique and anything in the sterile field needs to be sterile, if possible.
Is it necessary to rinse with tap water vaginal probes after high level disinfection? Is tap water acceptable versus sterile water?
Nope – AIUM just states water can be used to clean probes BEFORE high level disinfectionb
Hello Evelyn,
It depends on how high-level disinfection was achieved. Automated reprocessors using sonicated H202 do not require rinsing after disinfection. However, if HLD is achieved using a bulk-liquid soaking solution using chemistries like glutaraldehyde (Cidex), ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA), or Steris Resert, they do have specific rinsing requirements. (Please read the IFU’s). I think that some of the IFU’s for these chemistries do recommend sterile water for rinsing, but not it is not required.
Evelyn – It’s important to take a look at what national organizations have said about disinfection: See the new ACEP guide here: https://www.acep.org/globalassets/new-pdfs/policy-statements/guideline-for-ultrasound-transducer-cleaning-and-disinfection.pdf
I have read many articles that say CIDEX does NOT kill HPV, nor can I find it on the list of microorganisms it says it does kill. So how can CIDEX be the standard for TV probes when it does NOT kill a major STD? I worked in an OBGYN office that was told by OSHA they could no longer dispose of CIDEX in the sink or anywhere else, because of contamination of the local water sources. So they used a high level disinfectant wipe that had a kill time of less than 9 minutes, possibly shorter, (But I do not remember which wipe it was, as it was a few yrs ago). We were also told we needed to dispose of the TV probe covers in a biohazard bag because the covers were contaminated with bodily fluids, It made sense to do that, but I’ve not seen that anywhere else. So, does anyone know of a disinfectant wipe that kills HPV? What are other solutions to disinfecting ultrasound probes besides using CIDEX or soaking in a solution for 8-12 minutes? Any and all information would be appreciated. Thanks!!
Dear Melanie- great question. I looked for the answer and couldnt find it, as it definitely is not part of these guidelines. You can even see what the CDC says about disinfectants: https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/healthcare-equipment.html
Hi Melanie,
Great questions! At the time the CDC guidelines were written for ultrasound transducer disinfection, researchers had not yet figured out a way to culture the HPV virus for testing. It was long believed that if something (CIDEX) could kill the Polio virus, then it should also then be effective against other viruses. Because scientists could not culture and test the HPV virus, it was not included as a requirement for high-level disinfectants. In 2014, researchers out of Penn State discovered a way to successfully grow the HPV virus and immediately set out to understand what would kill it – particularly stands 16 and 18, which are two of most dangerous and responsible for about 99% of all cervical cancer. They published two studies, both showing that CIDEX and OPA were completely ineffective at inactivating the HPV virus. The only method of high-level disinfection that completely destroyed the virus was the Trophon EPR disinfection system.
In the U.S., there are no high-level disinfectant wipes that are FDA-approved for use. You did not indicate where the OB office was where you were using wipes to disinfect your probes. If you were in the United States and using an FDA-approved product, you were likely just low-level disinfecting your probes between uses.
I am not aware of any wipe that has been tested and found effective against the HPV virus.
I hope this helps.
Jonathan – very helpful! Thanks for your thought. I have looked more into it, and it seems that those some use condom sheaths with wipes (that are all only low level disinfectant) for outpatient use, while many institutions approved a high level disinfectant, like the Trophon (the GUS Vapor control system is another one that is thought to meet the Joint Commission and OSHA).
Just wondering… I understand following a vaginal ultrasound the probe requires HLD. In disposing of the probe sheath is it considered biohazard waste? Should it be disposed of in “Red/Biohazard” trash? Is the regular trash ok? The CDC considers vaginal secretions as other potentially infectious materials. Just confused and wondering.
Hi Sarah – That is a good question, and it is unclear, but it should follow your institution’s guidelines for disposing of other pelvic equipment,like speculums, cotton covered applicators that came in contact with vaginal secretion. It is best for anything that you wonder may need biohazard waste to just put it there.
Hello, you mention external probes used for clean intact skin. What about external probes used for biopsies, nerve blocks, vascular access, and all other guided procedures?
HI Jonathan – thanks for the question -these guidelines were by AIUM, not me, and they dont have specific strategies other than to use sterile technique and probe covers when needed for sterile procedures.
It is my understanding that Ultrasound probes can be classified as non-critical, semi-critical, or critical devices; depending on how they are used. If the probe only contacts healthy, intact skin, then it is classified as a non-critical medical device and should be low-level disinfected between uses. If the external probe contacts non-intact skin, such as when scanning open wounds or burn evaluations, then the probe is classified as a semi-critical device and should, if possible, be sterilized. If sterilization is not possible, then high-level disinfection is required at minimum. If the probe contacts sterile tissue or blood, or even has the remote chance of contacting these areas, then it is classified as a critical medical device and should also be sterilized if possible. If sterilization is not possible, then high-level disinfection is required at minimum.
CDC – “Semicritical items contact mucous membranes or nonintact skin… Semicritical items minimally require high-level disinfection…”
AIUM – “High-level disinfection of the probe between each use is necessary for all probes that are in contact with bodiliy fluids / blood or have a remote chance to be in contact with dry/cracked skin and body fluids, including blood”
FDA – Semicritical devices… sterilize these devices between uses whenever feasible, but high-level disinfection is minimally acceptable.”
AAMI – “Semicritical devices should be sterilized, if possible. However, if sterilization is not feasible, the device, at a minimum, must be subjected to a high-level disinfection process…”
TJC – “Semi-critical devices that contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin should minimally undergo High Level Disinfection” 5
Thanks for the list! As you can see from the various definitions and guidelines, there is controversy. Knowing what your own institution requires is also important
This from the authoritative body SHEA, joint statement with others.
There is no higher authoritative statement.
Probes with sterile cover for ICU central lines only need low level
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/jum.15653
When should a probe be recleaned if it has not been used up to how many days
Great question – A probe that is not in use technically should be covered so that it can be used without further cleaning after initial cleaning. Hope that helps
Is there any literature supporting the above statement, “should be covered so that it can be used without further cleaning after initial cleaning,”? This makes sense to me, but I need something evidenced-based to present to our Infection Prevention team. They are relying on the guidelines from the SGNA that says to reprocess after 7 days with no use. My position is that the SGNA is referring to endoscopes that contain channels and not to ultrasound transducers. Appreciate any insight on this.
Dear John -Great question. This only comes from policy at various institutions and not evidence-based. In looking at AIUM’s guidelines, there are some references that would help: https://www.aium.org/officialStatements/26 .
References
1. Kac G, Podglajen I, Si-Mohamed A, Rodi A, Grataloup C, Meyer G. Evaluation of Ultraviolet C for Disinfection of Endocavitary Ultrasound Transducers Persistently Contaminated Despite Probe Covers. Paris, France: Hygiène Hospitalière; 2010
2. Adhikari S, Blaivas M, Morrison D, and Lander L. Comparison of infection rates among ultrasound‐guided versus traditionally placed peripheral intravenous lines. J Ultrasound Med 2010; 29:741–747.
3. Spaulding E. Chemical disinfection and antisepsis in the hospital. Hosp Res 1957; 9:5–31.
4. Casalegno J, Carval K, Elbach D, et al. High risk HPV contamination of endocavity vaginal ultrasound probes: An underestimated route of nosocomial infection? PLoS ONE 2012; 7:e48137. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0048137
5. Westerway SC, Basseal JM, Brockway A, Hyett JA, Carter DA. Potential infection control risks associated with ultrasound equipment–a bacterial perspective. Ultrasound Med Biol 2017a; 43:421–426.
6. Westerway SC, Basseal JM. The ultrasound unit and infection control–Are we on the right track? Ultrasound 2017b; 25:53–57.
7. Westerway SC, Basseal JM. Advancing infection control in Australasian medical ultrasound practice. Austral J Ultrasound Med 2017c; 20:26–29.
8. Sartoretti T, Sartoretti E, Bucher C, et al. Bacterial contamination of ultrasound probes in different radiological institutions before and after specific hygiene training: do we have a general hygienical problem? Eur Radiol 2017; 27:4181–4187.
9. Gottlieb M, Sundaram T, Holladay D, Nakitende D. Ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous line placement: a narrative review of evidence-based best practices. West J Emerg Med 2017; 18:1047.
10. Dargin JM, Rebholz CM, Lowenstein RA, et al. Ultrasonography-guided peripheral intravenous catheter survival in ED patients with difficult access. Am J Emerg Med 2010; 28:1–7.
11. Au AK, Rotte MJ, Grzybowski RJ, et al. Decrease in central venous catheter placement due to use of ultrasound guidance for peripheral intravenous catheters. Am J Emerg Med 2012; 30:1950–1954.
12. Shokoohi H, Boniface K, McCarthy M, et al. Ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous access program is associated with a marked reduction in central venous catheter use in noncritically ill emergency department patients. Ann Emerg Med 2013; 61:198–203.
13. Duran-Gehring P, Bryant L, Reynolds JA, et al. Ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous catheter training results in physician-level success for emergency department technicians. J Ultrasound Med 2016; 35:2343–2352.
14. Abramowicz JS, Evans DH, Fowlkes JB, Marsal K, and WFUMB Safety Committee. Guidelines for cleaning transvaginal ultrasound transducers between patients. Ultrasound Med Biol 2017; 43:1076–1079.
15. Nyhsen CM, Humphreys H, Koerner RJ, et al. Infection prevention and control in ultrasound – best practice recommendations from the European Society of Radiology Ultrasound Working Group. Insights Imaging 2017; 8:523–535.
16. 21CFR 800.20. US Government Publishing Office. https://Www.Gpo.Gov/Fdsys/Granule/Cfr-2011-Title21-Vol8/Cfr-2011-Title21-Vol8-Sec800-20.
17. (WHO 2010
18. Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisor Committee. Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/
19. Health Canada. Serious risk of infection from ultrasound and medical gels – revision. Health Canada website; December 14, 2004. Accessed April 25, 2016, at http://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2004/14289a-eng.php.
20. O’Rourke M, Levan P, Khan T. Current use of ultrasound transmission gel for transesophageal echocardiogram examinations: a survey of cardiothoracic anesthesiology fellowship directors. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2014; 28:1208–1210.
When its high level disinfection (HLD) if its not stored in a cabinet with Hepa filter its only good for 5 days from the day you cidex
Hi Jodi,
Official guidelines have yet to be established regarding this point, however, it is generally accepted that 1 week seems reasonable – especially if the ultrasound probe is covered and the risk of cross-contamination is minimized. Joint Commission inspectors are starting to ask this question and I think that as long as you have something defined in your local policy, you should be fine.
It is important to check with your institution as well, and see what guidelines other departments use for their probes.