{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Evaluation of procedures for decontaminating ultrasound probes.
{Author}: Hayashi S;Koibuchi H;Taniguchi N;Hirai Y;
{Journal}: J Med Ultrason (2001)
{Volume}: 39
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: Jan 2012
{Factor}: 1.878
{DOI}: 10.1007/s10396-011-0332-9
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To determine suitable procedures for decontaminating ultrasound probes.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>We investigated bacterial transmission via ultrasound probes that were not wiped, wiped with a plain paper towel, or wiped with an ethanol-soaked paper towel.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>The unwiped probes transmitted large numbers of bacteria, which were markedly reduced by wiping the probes with a plain paper towel, and almost completely eliminated by wiping with an ethanol-soaked paper towel.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Improperly decontaminated ultrasound probes can transmit bacteria among patients. Ultrasound probes should be decontaminated by wiping with a paper towel after examinations to prevent bacterial transmission. Plain or ethanol-soaked paper towels should be used depending on the situation.