The investigators found that 34 percent of the 50 sets of examined ECG cables tested positive for bacteria and fungi. Previous research published in Anesthesia & Analgesia showed that up to 75 percent of laryngoscope handles were found to be contaminated with bacteria, according to the report.
The study, led by Brice Samyn, MD, anesthesiologist at Strasbourg University Hospital, examined ECG cables used during 50 procedures in the OR. The cables were swabbed and tested for bacterial and mycological contaminants. Seventeen of the 50 cables tested positive for bacteria or fungi, and contaminated cables largely originated from ORs where GI or OB/GYN surgeries had been performed.
The researchers believed the high contaminated rates could be linked to poor adherence to decontamination protocols.
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