Many endocavity ultrasound users do not have access to infection prevention guidelines, according to a survey study published February 28 in Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology.
A team led by Susan Westerway, PhD, from Charles Sturt University in Sydney, Australia, also reported that most ultrasound users do not have access to training in using their chosen transducer cleaning and disinfection methods. The results come from a survey issued by the World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) Safety Committee.
“Inadequate reprocessing of endocavity ultrasound transducers increases the possibility of transmission of bacteria and viruses, such as human papillomavirus and HIV, and puts patient safety at risk,” the Westerway team wrote.
The WFUMB in 2024 published updated recommendations for cleaning endocavity ultrasound transducers between exams. These exams could be transvaginal, transrectal, or oral cavity, each of which has risk factors for cross-contamination between patients and ultrasound users. Probe covers alone do not prevent cross-contamination, since they can split during an endocavity exam.
Despite evidence, the researchers noted persistent reluctance by some ultrasound users in adjusting their cleaning practices.
Westerway and colleagues explored the international availability of practice guidelines, training, and methods used for reprocessing endocavity ultrasound transducers after scanning. The survey issued by the researchers included questions regarding the use of transducer covers for endocavity ultrasound exams, the availability of infection prevention guidelines, and the availability of training in this area, among others.
Final analysis included responses from 1,436 respondents from 105 countries. The researchers reported the following findings:
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About 37% of respondents said they have access to guidelines for infection prevention and control, and 57% said they were unsure of any available guidelines in their practice.
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About 46% of practitioners reported receiving training in reprocessing endocavity transducers after use.
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About 94% reported using probe covers when performing an endocavity ultrasound exam.
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About 40% of respondents said they prefer using high-level disinfection after using probes. Another 18% said they use a surface wipe such as alcohol, detergent, or bleach after removing probe covers and gel.
The study authors reiterated that probe covers alone should not be a substitute for high-level disinfection. They added that manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfection should be followed and that facilities should make sure that the cleaning product used is compatible with the ultrasound transducer.
“With the growing evidence of infection transmission following endocavity ultrasound examinations, Ministries of Health, guided by their relevant [infection prevention and control] groups and ultrasound societies, should be encouraged to endorse the implementation of, and training in infection prevention in ultrasound practice, and to recommend the use of high-level disinfection following any endocavity ultrasound examination,” they wrote.
Read the full study here.