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Decontamination


high if disinfection protocols are not rigorously followed. The process of disinfecting ultrasound


probes must strike a balance between effective disinfection and maintaining the integrity of the equipment. Traditional methods, which often involve chemical disinfectants, can be less effective and may degrade the probe materials over time. Moreover, chemical residues pose additional health risks to patients and healthcare professionals, and environmental hazards for disposal, together with the financial burden of the consumable cost. This highlights the need for advanced, more


reliable disinfection methods that ensure patient safety without compromising the functionality of the ultrasound equipment or contributing to environmental degradation. In this regard, the emergence of technologies like UV-C light disinfection offers a promising solution. By providing a high-level of disinfection without the use of harsh chemicals, such technologies are setting new standards in healthcare safety and efficiency. At the same time, UV-C light technology presents a more sustainable option for ultrasound probe disinfection, with reduced need for disposal of waste and toxic chemicals.


The science of UV-C light in disinfection UV-C light, a type of ultraviolet light, has emerged as a potent tool in disinfection, particularly in healthcare settings. The principle behind UV-C light is its ability to destroy the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, rendering them incapable of replication and causing infection. This effectiveness stems from the specific wavelength of UV-C light (between 200-280 nanometers), which is highly effective at penetrating the cell walls of microorganisms. The use of UV-C light for disinfection


represents a significant shift from traditional methods that often rely on chemical agents. Chemical disinfectants, while effective, come with drawbacks such as potential toxicity, the need for proper handling, and the possibility of contributing to antimicrobial resistance.


Moreover, some pathogens are becoming increasingly resistant to these chemical methods. In contrast, UV-C light offers a non-contact,


residue-free disinfection process. This means it can be used to disinfect a variety of surfaces and equipment without the risk of chemical contamination. Its application ranges from disinfecting air and water to disinfecting medical devices and surfaces. The adoption of UV-C light technology also


reflects an increasing emphasis on sustainability in healthcare. Unlike chemical methods, UV-C disinfection doesn’t produce harmful by- products or residues, making it a sustainable option. Additionally, it reduces the need for consumable products like wipes and chemicals, further lowering the environmental impact while significantly reducing costs. (Note: a wipe is required for the pre-clean of each process and therefore must be costed into the business case for the D45).


When two thymines are next to each other, the UV-C light binds them to each other instead of to the opposite base in the DNA/RNA molecule.


Enhancing patient and staff safety The adoption of UV-C disinfection technology, particularly in healthcare settings, represents a significant stride in enhancing patient and staff safety. Its implementation is crucial in areas where the risk of infection is high, such as in the disinfection of ultrasound probes. Devices like the UV Smart D45 (available in the UK through Wassenburg), are at the forefront of this innovation. Using UV-C light for rapid and effective disinfection, the technology has several advantages. First, it minimises patients’ exposure to harmful pathogens, significantly reducing the risk of HCAIs. By ensuring the probe is thoroughly disinfected, UV-C technology aids in safeguarding patient health during diagnostic procedures. Additionally, this approach is particularly beneficial in sensitive medical areas, providing an added layer of protection where the risk of infection can have serious consequences. For healthcare staff, the use of UV-C disinfection technology means a safer working environment.


Traditional disinfection methods often involve handling chemicals that can pose health risks. UV-C disinfection eliminates this hazard, providing a non-toxic alternative that is both safe and effective. This not only enhances the safety of healthcare environments but also contributes to a more pleasant and less hazardous workplace for staff. With its rapid disinfection cycle with no


warm-up period, the UV Smart technology enables quick turnaround times, significantly increasing patient flow without compromising disinfection efficacy for patient safety. The environmental impact of UV-C disinfection is another key benefit. Unlike chemical methods, UV-C disinfection does not generate waste or leave chemical residues, making it a more sustainable option for healthcare facilities.


UV-C disinfection limitations There are significant benefits of using UV-C light for disinfection. However, like all technologies, there are also limitations to consider. When misused, UV-C is harmful to humans and can even cause skin cancer and blindness. This type of disinfection can also be hazardous, when not used properly, because the lightwaves must actually reach the microbes for the specified length of time in order to destroy their DNA. Any shadows or obstacles that block the UV-C rays from the surface to be disinfected can lead to uneven results and the possible spread of disease. The effective implementation of UV-C disinfection requires careful consideration of factors such as exposure time, intensity, and safety measures to protect against direct exposure to UV-C light. Modern UV-C disinfection systems are designed to mitigate these risks, often featuring shields or enclosures and safety protocols to protect healthcare professionals and patients. Unregulated UV-C disinfection products on the market pose risks of ineffective disinfection and safety concerns due to lack of compliance with established standards. Also, the lack of standardised guidelines for the use of UV-C disinfection across different settings and industries can create challenges in ensuring consistent application and effectiveness.


The Green Standard The Green Standard is a compliant and sustainable approach to facilitate the integration of UV-C devices into a hospital’s current workflow. The Green Standard closes the gap by addressing how to be both sustainable and compliant with guidelines in healthcare using UV-C disinfection. The standard provides detailed, easy-to-follow


October 2024 I www.clinicalservicesjournal.com 65


Андрей Жерновой - stock.adobe.com


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