Reducing the Risk of Infection with Disposable EEG Electrodes
Recent studies and reports continue to shed light on the topic of Reusable EEG Electrodes and justification to transition to single patient Disposable EEG Electrodes.
Recent studies and reports continue to shed light on the topic of Reusable EEG Electrodes and justification to transition to single patient Disposable EEG Electrodes. EEG application typically includes preparation of the skin by use of a cotton tip applicator with an agent to prep or abrade the skin to assist with higher quality recordings. By performing this “prepping” action, the surface electrode becomes a semi-critical itemwhich mandates a specific process for cleaning and disinfecting the reusable electrode after each use. The definition of a semi-critical item is part of the Spaulding classification system, which is used by the CDC and was developed by Earle Spaulding in 1968. Spaulding's classification categorizes medical devices into three categories which can assist the clinician in determining which devices should be cleaned, disinfected and or sterilized prior to use in patient care. The three category classifications are (1) critical (2) semi-critical and (3) non-critical. The Spaulding system encompasses all types of supplies and equipment. Recent reports show electrodes identified as disinfected to the standards of intermittent to high level disinfecting have tested positively for bacterial cultures and thus continues to raise the question of why all electrodes are not single patient disposable. In addition, BeckerHospitalReview.com reports “The hospital reduces the risk of infections associated with medical equipment, devices and supplies” - is cited as “not complaint” 72 percent of the time in 2017.
Sponsored by:
Rhythmlink® International, LLC designs, manufactures and distributes medical devices and provides custom packaging, private labeling, custom products and contract manufacturing to its customers. Rhythmlink is recognized as a leader within its field at providing the important physical connection between patients and the diagnostic equipment to record or elicit neurophysiologic biopotentials.
Originally founded by neurodiagnostic technicians and engineers in 2002, Rhythmlink strives to provide continuous innovation and superior quality in all of its products. Rhythmlink celebrated fifteen years in business in July 2017. Based in Columbia, SC, Rhythmlink's advancements and improvements in technology, business development and corporate branding have brought national and international recognition.
Our mission is to change patient care for the better by connecting patients to machines.
Download
Point of care high-level disinfection for ultrasound probes
May 22nd 2023As automated reprocessing solutions replace time-consuming manual processes, point of care HLD of ultrasound probes has become a safe and effective alternative to centralized methods. When taking into account key considerations around technology, traceability, safety and workflows, point of care HLD can be an efficient and cost-effective way to prevent patients from the risk of infection.
The Mandate to Maintain and Follow Manufacturers’ Maintenance Documents and Service Manuals
June 26th 2019Many of the regulatory and accreditation criteria for healthcare facilities relate to decontamination, sterilization and maintenance procedures. The standards often require hospital SPD, BMET, OR, Infection Control and other technicians to follow and have easy access to manufacturers’ directives regarding preparing and caring for their devices, equipment and systems.
Healthcare Worker Protection-The Key to Surviving The Next Respiratory Outbreak
November 1st 2018Serious geopolitical and social forces are converging to create the conditions, on a scale unique in history, for a major respiratory pandemic. Prioritizing the protection of healthcare workers will be key to containing such a pandemic.
