An evaluation of different steam disinfection protocols for cystic fibrosis nebulizers
(2016) Journal of Cystic Fibrosis — Vol. 15, n° 1, p. 78-84 (2016)
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- Abstract
- Background: Contamination is a key element in cystic fibrosis. For this reason, nebulizer hygiene is an important, but complex and time-consuming task for cystic fibrosis patients. The aim of this study was to compare different steam disinfection and drying protocols. Methods: One hundred nebulizer parts were inoculated with cystic fibrosis-related bacteria in high concentrations (Burkholderia multivorans 3.9 × 1010/ml, Staphylococcus aureus 8.9 × 108/ml and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 2.1 × 109/ml). Tubes with Mycobacterium abscessus complex were additionally tested. Six steam disinfectors were compared. Different methods of drying were examined. Results: All tested bacteria were efficiently killed by the different steam disinfectors tested. The risk of contamination depended on the method of drying. Conclusions: Steam disinfection is a safe disinfection method. It is better to leave the nebulizers wet after steam disinfection than to manipulate them by active drying, which seems to be a source of recontamination.
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Citations
Hohenwarter, K., Prammer, W., Aichinger, W., & Reychler, G. (2016). An evaluation of different steam disinfection protocols for cystic fibrosis nebulizers. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis, 15(1), 78-84. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcf.2015.07.005 (Original work published 2016)