An evaluation of different steam disinfection protocols for cystic fibrosis nebulizers

BackgroundContamination is a key element in cystic fibrosis. For this reason, nebulizer hygiene is an important, but complex and time-consuming task for cystic fibrosis patients. The aim of this study was to compare different steam disinfection and drying protocols.MethodsOne hundred nebulizer parts were inoculated with cystic fibrosis-related bacteria in high concentrations (Burkholderia multivorans 3.9 × 1010/ml, Staphylococcus aureus 8.9 × 108/ml and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 2.1 × 109/ml). Tubes with Mycobacterium abscessus complex were additionally tested. Six steam disinfectors were compared. Different methods of drying were examined.ResultsAll tested bacteria were efficiently killed by the different steam disinfectors tested. The risk of contamination depended on the method of drying.ConclusionsSteam disinfection is a safe disinfection method. It is better to leave the nebulizers wet after steam disinfection than to manipulate them by active drying, which seems to be a source of recontamination.