Independent validation of a novel surgical instrument Decontamination System

  • Doherty, Mary (PI)

Project Details

Description of project aims

Ineffective decontamination of surgical instruments is
considered a major cause of hospital-acquired infection
which affects up to 10% of patients, is responsible for
5,000 deaths and costs the NHS in excess of £1 billion
each year. Despite this, there is little data on the efficacy
of decontamination systems and a lack of standardised
validation practices. The need for independent,
standardised monitoring is therefore essential to improve
patient outcomes and reduce costs.

This proposal will compare novel Aseptium
decontamination technologies and washing systems
in use throughout the NHS. Researchers within the
University of the Highlands and Islands will perform
independent cleaning efficiency analysis to detect surgical
contamination products using advanced instrumentation
including liquid chromatography-tandem mass
spectrometry.

Key funding - quote all funding agency(s)

Objectives
Comparison of Aseptium technologies (uSonic cleaning
systems, VeriTest process challenge devices) and
existing NHS systems.
Identification of contaminants resistant to standard
washing procedures.

Potential impacts and outcomes
This project will promote collaboration amongst Inverness
Campus stakeholders, highlight regional healthcare
innovation activity and support Aseptium marketing
and business development activities. It may also help
determine the efficacy of decontamination systems used
by the NHS, potentially resulting in reduced hospital
acquired infections.
Acronym1394PW
StatusFinished
Effective start/end date1/04/1930/09/19

Collaborative partners

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