Bacterial transfer and biofilm formation in needleless connectors in a clinically simulated in vitro catheter model.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Although needleless connectors (NCs) are widely used in clinical practice, they carry significant risk of bloodstream infection (BSI). In this study, we quantified differences in bacterial transfer and biofilm formation between various NCs.

Design

Prospective, clinically simulated in vitro experimental study.

Methods

We tested 20 NCs in a 5-day clinical simulation of Staphylococcus aureus inoculations onto NC septum surfaces, which were then flushed with saline and cultured for bacterial transfer. Biofilm formation was measured through destructive sampling of the connector-catheter system. Moreover, 8 NC design factors were evaluated for their influence on bacterial transfer and biofilm formation. This study was designed without a disinfection protoco

SUBMITTER: Ryder M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10665874 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature