In one hospital, Pseudomonas aeruginosa serotype 10 infected the biliary tract of 10 percent of 1300 patients who underwent gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. After each use, endoscopes were washed with an automatic reprocessor that flushed detergent and glutaraldehyde through the endoscopes, followed by a tap water rinse. P. aeruginosa 10 was not isolated from the detergent, glutaraldehyde, or tap water. What was the source of the infections?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The source of the infections is likely a biofilm in the reprocessor, as Pseudomonas aeruginosa can form biofilms that are resistant to disinfectants and can persist in the reprocessing equipment, leading to contamination of the endoscopes.

In One Hospital, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Serotype 10 Infected the Biliary