Evaluation of surface-activity-enhanced disinfectants and solutions in fiberglass-filled narrow lumens

Abstract

The objective of this research was to examine whether modulation of the surface tensions of current or prospective cleaning and disinfecting solutions to lower values, could diminish the risks of secondary infection from inadequately cleaned devices by promoting spontaneous wetting, spreading, and penetration of reagents to previously inaccessible capillary spaces, interstices, and crevices. Specifically, surface-active displacement solutions were added to endoscope disinfectants containing 2.5 glutaraldehyde, as a laboratory control, and to two commercial preparations, Glutacide and Glutox ® PLUS , cleared by regulatory agencies for use in endoscope disinfection. Verification that the commercial disinfectant Glutacide ® was more effective than laboratory-standard 2.5% glutaraldehyde supports the prospect that further formulation improvements could assist in safe and effective re-use of complex biomechanical devices. An important finding was that there was no apparent alteration of the short-term chemical effectiveness of the active ingredients of the germicidal compositions. SADS addition diminished the surface tensions sufficiently to promote improved wetting, spreading and penetration into the soiled glass columns, while retaining the anti-microbial efficacy of the original reagents. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)