New developments in cleaning and disinfection of portable equipment.

BACKGROUND

Contaminated portable medical equipment is a potential contributor to transmission of health care-associated pathogens.

METHODS

The published English literature was searched for articles on pathogen transmission by shared portable medical equipment, and on equipment cleaning and disinfection.

RESULTS

Simulation studies and epidemiologic investigations including whole-genome sequencing provide support for contaminated equipment as a source of transmission. In a cluster-randomized trial, daily cleaning and disinfection of shared equipment reduced health care-associated infections. Educational interventions focused on clinical staff, dedicated cleaning teams, and use of "no-touch" technologies can improve equipment cleaning and disinfection.

CONCLUSIONS

Portable equipment and other shared devices contribute to dissemination of health care-associated pathogens. Health care facilities should develop strategies to ensure effective cleaning and disinfection of shared portable devices.