Infection control in the sonography department

Abstract

Knowledge of how to prevent healthcare-associated infections within the sonography department is an important step in providing quality care. Employing scientifically based preventative measures will ensure that the tools we use do not become vectors for the spread of pathogens that cause infections. These avoidable infections have not only an added financial cost to patients and the already burdened healthcare system but also physical and emotional costs to the patients we treat. Specific infection control guidelines for the sonography department are lacking, and the guidelines that are available are often based on proven infection control practiced in similar situations. Within this article are the applicable infection guidelines sonographers can use to provide safe quality care. © 2010 The Author(s).