GE Voluson S6 Basic User Manual page 30

Safety
2.6.7 Probe Maintenance
2.6.7.1 Inspecting Probes
Note
2.6.7.2 Probe Handling and Infection Control
2.6.7.3 Probe Cleaning and Disinfecting Process
2-16
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Stand up to typical wear with cleaning and using disinfectant agents, contact with
approved gel, etc.
Only authorized personnel shall perform any type of repair. Never attempt to open a
transducer or transducer connector. This will void the warranty!
After each use, inspect the probe's lens, cable, and casing. Look for any damage that would
allow liquid to enter the probe. If any damage is found, the probe must not be placed into any
liquid (e.g. for disinfection) and must not be used until it has been inspected and repaired/
replaced by a GE Healthcare Service Representative.
Keep a log of all probe maintenance, along with a picture of any probe malfunction.
This information is intended to increase user awareness of the risks of disease transmission
associated with using this equipment and provide guidance in making decisions directly
affecting the safety of the patient as well as the equipment user.
Diagnostic ultrasound systems utilize ultrasound energy that must be coupled to the patient by
direct physical contact. Depending on the type of examination, this contact occurs with a
variety of tissues ranging from intact skin in a routine exam to recirculating blood in a surgical
procedure.
The level of risk of infection varies greatly with the type of contact.
One of the most effective ways to prevent transmission between patients is with single use or
disposable devices. However, ultrasound transducers are complex and expensive devices that
must be reused between patients. It is very important, therefore, to minimize the risk of
disease transmission by using barriers and through proper processing between patients.
Adequate cleaning and disinfection are necessary to prevent disease transmission. It is the
responsibility of the equipment user to verify and maintain the effectiveness of the infection
control procedures in use.
High-level disinfection is recommended for surface probes and is required for endocavity
probes. Additional to disinfection the use of sterile, legally marketed probe sheats for
intracavitary procedures is MANDATORY.
Ultrasound probes can be disinfected using liquid chemical germicides. The level of
disinfection is directly related to the duration of contact with the germicide. Increased contact
time produces a higher level of disinfection.
CREUTZFIELD-JACOB DISEASE
Neurological use on patients with this disease must be avoided. If a probe becomes
contaminated, there is no adequate disinfecting means.
To clean and disinfect the probe after each use:
1. Remove the probe sheath, if appropriate.
Voluson® S6/S8 Basic User Manual
5433669-100 Revision 4