Transducer and System Maintenance
T3300 Diagnostic Ultrasound System | 95 | B00601-010 4/10/17
9.3 Transducer Care
Reasonable care includes inspection, cleaning, and disinfection or sterilization, as necessary.
Transducers must be cleaned after each use. Inspect all parts of the transducer carefully before
each use. Check for cracks or other damage that jeopardizes the integrity of the transducer.
9.3.1 Transducer Care and Operator Safety
Observe the following warnings and cautions during all cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization
procedures and when using disinfectants.
WARNING
Disinfectants are recommended because of their chemical compatibility with product
materials, not their biological effectiveness. For the biological effectiveness of a disinfectant,
see the guidelines and recommendations of the disinfectant manufacturer, the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
WARNING
The level of disinfection required for a device is dictated by the type of tissue it will contact
during use. Ensure the disinfectant type is appropriate for the type of transducer and the
transducer application. For information on the levels of disinfection requirements, see
"Transducer Care" on page 95.
WARNINGS
• Do not drop the transducer on a hard surface, as this will damage the transducer
elements and compromise the electrical safety of the transducer.
• Do not allow sharp objects, such as scissors, scalpels, or cauterizing knives, to touch
transducers or cables.
• Do not use damaged or flawed transducers.
WARNINGS
• Use only the approved ultrasound coupling gels.
• Use only couplants specifically designed for ultrasound examinations. Do not use
mineral-oil or vegetable-based couplants, which can damage transducers.
WARNING
If a pre-mixed solution is used, be sure to observe the solution expiration date.
WARNINGS
• Transducers must be cleaned after each use. Cleaning the transducer is an essential step
before effective disinfection or sterilization. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s
instructions when using disinfectants.
• When sterilizing a transducer, ensure that the sterilant solution’s strength and duration of
contact are appropriate for sterilization. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s
instructions.
WARNING
Attempting to clean or disinfect a transducer, cable, or connector by using a method other
than the procedures provided here can damage the device and voids the warranty.