For this study, flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopes were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. The laryngoscopes then underwent disinfection with the following protocols:
- A 20-, 15-, 10-, and 5-minute soak in ortho-phthalaldehyde with or without presoaking in an enzymatic soap solution for 5 minutes
- An isolated 5-minute soak in an enzymatic soap solution
- A 30-second wipe with antibacterial soap and water
- A 30-second wipe with isopropyl alcohol
- A 30-second wipe with antibacterial soap, followed by a 30-second scrub with isopropyl alcohol
- A 30-second wipe with germicidal cloth, accompanied by previous rinsing with 30 seconds of running tap water
The researchers found all the interventions, with the exception of the 5-minute soak in enzymatic soap, completely disinfected the laryngoscopes.
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