Mindray DP-20 - Page 149

Probes and Biopsy 12-9
NOTE:
1.
After the examination, wipe off the ultrasound gel thoroughly. Otherwise, the
ultrasound gel may solidify and degrade the image quality of the transducer.
2.
DO NOT make the probe to become overheated (more than 55°C) during
cleaning and disinfections. High temperature may cause the probe to become
deformed or damaged.
Cleaning and Disinfection Overview
Cleaning and disinfection refer to two distinct processes. 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 (e.g. 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.
High-Level Disinfection (HLD)—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.”
Selecting a Disinfection Method
Transducers can be divided into three categories based on their intended use. Some
transducers may fall into more than one category (e.g. transducers use for biopsy
procedures). When selecting a disinfectant, determine the required level of disinfection based
on intended use and possibility of cross-contamination.
Contacts intact skin: Transducers that only come into contact with clean, intact skin are
considered noncritical devices and require cleaning after every use. Cleaning may be
followed by a low-level disinfectant spray or wipe.
Contacts mucous membranes: This category includes all endocavity transducers -
intravaginal, transrectal, and transesophageal (TEE). These semi-critical transducers must
be cleaned with an appropriate cleaner after use followed by high-level disinfection.