Normal and abnormal spirometry: A guide
Guidelines for infection control
Cleaning
Before sterilisation or disinfection all equipment must be thoroughly
cleaned. The manufacturers’ recommendation for cleaning specific equipment must
be adhered to at all times.15
Semi-critical items
It is recommended that disposable mouthpieces are used where ever possible.
Where not possible, an alcohol solution should be used on the mouthpiece. This
should be a 70% solution of ethyl or isopropyl alcohol in which the items are
fully immersed for twenty minutes.15
Non-critical items
The literature states that tubes are seldom contaminated with pathogens and
there is no evidence that any organisms re-emerge at the mouthpiece or have been
involved in infection transmission. It is recommended that tubing be cleaned
daily to remove particulate matter and moisture. Other items or equipment coming
in contact with intact skin require cleaning between patients. It is important
to rinse the equipment with tap water, to remove all traces of detergent and
disinfectant, and air dry as soon as possible after rinsing.15
