(In Revision - update to be posted here estimated Fall 2019):
Transducer Disinfection for Assessment and Insertion of Peripheral and Central Catheters for Vascular Access Teams and Clinicians
approved by AVA Board of Directors June 2018
Ultrasound Reprocessing Task Force Statement:
A primary responsibility of a professional association is to provide evidence-based guidance for members so they may reach the highest level of quality care for the patients they serve. Last year, AVA took a bold move and released a position paper regarding ultrasound use and disinfection practices aimed at vascular access teams. Knowing this was a rapidly changing area of practice, AVA felt it important to open the conversation and provide initial guidance as other professional associations were grappling with many of the same issues.
The use of ultrasound for diagnostic and intervention purposes continues to be one of the fastest growing areas of patient care service and presents unique challenges that require an interprofessional approach to problem solving. This growth requires constant review of standards, research, and governmental regulation that presents a unique challenge to the establishment of best practices in the absence of strong evidence. To that end, and to meet current evidence-based criteria, AVA is revising the position paper titled, “Transducer Disinfection for Assessment and Insertion of Peripheral and Central Catheters for Vascular Access Teams and Clinicians”. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to ensure alignment with current standards, research, accreditation requirements, and regulations while at the same time identifying barriers to implementation and suggestions for pragmatic and incremental approaches.
The goal for an updated position paper is fall of 2019. At this time, we await confirmation of some relevant standard updates.
In the interim, consider devoting time to assessing existing ultrasound use and practice in your facility with emphasis on ultrasound disinfection practices, use of sterile probe covers, and sterile gel. If you are in need of tools to assist with practice assessments, consider visiting the following website
ultrasoundinfectionprevention.org.