Respiratory device infections lead to warnings
Hospital Safety Connection, December 21, 2005
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning healthcare facilities about patient infections stemming from the use of a respiratory gas device.
This week the CDC reported that 29 facilities in 16 states have found Ralstonia in Vapotherm devices. Vapotherm, which warms oxygen for administration to patients, is manufactured by Vapotherm, Inc., in Stevensville, MD. Vapotherm, Inc., has previously posted updates on these infection concerns.
The FDA recommends that facilities
- stop using Vapotherm devices and instead use similar, alternative machines
- monitor patients who have been exposed to the Vapotherm systems for signs of Ralstonia infection
The source of the Ralstonia contamination isn't yet known, and prior disinfecting suggestions have reportedly failed, according to the CDC. Ralstonia is a bacteria that can cause respiratory problems in patients with cystic fibrosis.
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