NEBULIZERS AND THE POSSIBILITY OF TRANSMISSION OF SUPERINFECTING AND OPPORTUNISTIC MICROORGANISMS

Abstract

Objective: Thus, this study evaluated by culture and PCR microbial contamination of nebulizers used in private and public clinics, as well as nebulizers for home and hospital use. Material and Methods: Samples were collected from masks, shells and cups of 50 nebulizers, using sterile swabs, which were transferred to peptoned water and submitted to pre-enrichment in peptone water or EVA broth. After obtaining pure cultures, the identification of the isolates was performed by phenotypic tests. The presence of the main opportunistic microorganisms was also evaluated by PCR using specific primers and conditions. Results: The results showed that there is not proper guidance on how the microbial contamination of the devices of the nebulizers could be controlled, and the frequency of enteric organisms, staphylococci and pseudomonads was particularly high in samples of equipment decontaminated with ethanol or that only received mechanical hygiene. Conclusion: The study shown that the nebulizers, despite if their use is at home or at hospitals, they are possible routes of transmission of pathogens associated with infections resistant to antibiotics and theses routes should be considered with greater emphasis on prevention.