The source, "An Analysis of the Effectiveness of High-level Disinfection for Surgical Instruments Used by Department of Defense Austere Surgical Teams," published in Mil Med on January 25, 2021, presents findings from a study evaluating the efficacy of high-level disinfection (HLD) methods employed by surgical teams operating under field conditions.
The investigation focused on surgical instruments utilized during emergency surgeries performed by Department of Defense (DoD) Austere Surgical Teams, examining the effectiveness of HLD processes applied to these tools in minimizing the presence of potential pathogens. The study was carried out using a standardized methodology that involved swabbing selected surgical instruments post-HLD treatment and subsequently testing the samples for the presence of various bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
The research revealed that, upon HLD application, the majority of tested surgical instruments failed to meet the recommended disinfection standards set forth by AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Specifically, a significant percentage of samples showed contamination with organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis.
The study took place within the Department of Defense's CSSD (central sterile supply department) facilities, emphasizing the need for improved high-level disinfection protocols in ensuring surgical instrument safety in austere medical environments.