Ms Jannelle Carlile1, Prof Mark Wilcox2
1The Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, Australia, 2University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
Biography:
Jannelle Carlile
Clinical Nurse Consultant – Infection Prevention and Control
She brings extensive expertise in safeguarding patient care and ensuring compliance with infection control standards.
Professor Mark Willcox
Professor of Microbiology, Research Director, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW. His research focuses on innovative methods to improve healthcare safety/hygiene.
Abstract:
Introduction
Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) has become a cornerstone in healthcare, aiming to improve clinical outcomes through the integration of the best available research evidence into clinical decision-making. In the context of ultrasound probe reprocessing, EBP is essential to reducing cross-infection risks, ensuring patient safety, and enhancing clinical efficacy. This research explores how the application of EBP principles in ultrasound probe reprocessing can foster significant improvements in clinical practice, infection control, and compliance with established guidelines.
Methods
A comprehensive literature review was conducted, examining several foundational research articles on EBP and its application in ultrasound prob reprocessing practices. The selection criteria for included studies emphasised their relevance to infection prevention, evidence quality, and methodological rigor. Research papers addressing both pre-EBP and post-EBP practices to identify shifts in clinical outcomes, focusing on peer-reviewed research related to ultrasound probe reprocessing and its role in infection control.
Results
The review identified that the transition from traditional decision-making approaches to EBP in ultrasound probe reprocessing has led to significant improvements in infection control and patient safety. The use of ultraviolet (UV) light from LEDs as an effective disinfectant for transvaginal ultrasound probes, aligning with findings from UNSW’s latest research.
Conclusion
Integrating EBP into ultrasound probe reprocessing is crucial for achieving optimal clinical outcomes and ensuring the safety of patients undergoing procedures. The findings emphasise the importance of healthcare teams critically assessing evidence to drive best clinical practices in probe-reprocessing.