During a routine screening in 2010, personnel at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina discovered Bacillus cereus bacteria in samples dispensed by their machine, the Intellifill IV. Personnel discovered the contamination through quality assurance measures recommended by the manufacturer.
The investigators traced the contamination to the machine’s washing station and the tubing associated with it. Because this area is not considered a sterile part of the robot, the manufacturer does not specify a cleaning procedure for these parts beyond regular “fogging” with alcohol, using a spray bottle to clean inaccessible parts. Although no patients were harmed by the contaminated drugs, the investigation into how the machine became contaminated suggests that the current cleaning and maintenance recommendations may need to be strengthened.
Related Articles on Sterilization:
Summary of FDA’s Proposed Changes to Cleaning Requirements for Biological Products
8 Recent Stories on Infection Control
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
