Reusing IPC single-patient use garments can cause cross infection, as they can be colonised by pathogenic and other bacteria from a patient’s skin
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent cause of preventable illness and death in inpatients. It is a complex vascular disease with a multifactorial pathogenesis and includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.
Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices involve the use of inflatable garments wrapped around the foot, calf or both calf and thigh. A pump provides intermittent cycles of compressed air that alternately inflate and deflate the garments, enhancing venous return (NICE, 2007).
Venous stasis is prevented. The movement of blood stimulates the release of fibrinolytic and anti-thrombotic substances from the endothelial lining of the vein that assist in both dissolving any existing clot and preventing formation of any new thrombus (Morris, 2008; NICE, 2007).
IPC is recommended as an alternative or an addition to pharmacological prophylaxis or graduated compression stockings for patients at risk of VTE (NICE, 2007). It is most commonly used for surgical patients both peri- and post-operatively, until they become fully mobile.
As with any device that is in direct contact with a patient, it is reasonable to assume that IPC garments will carry a bacterial bio-load after use. This is particularly true if the patient is a “high shedder” of skin cells – typically those with dry skin or conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
This study aimed to determine the bacterial bio-burden on a selection of DVT prophylaxis IPC garments from different manufacturers after an episode of single-patient use.
