The British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) supports the guidance recently released by Public Health England (PHE) on Good Infection Prevention Using Ultrasound Gel.
This guidance has been generated because contaminated ultrasound gel has been associated with outbreaks of infection in various settings, and/or identified as a potential vector for infection. More information can be found here.
In parallel to the PHE guidance , we recommend that, where possible, dedicated machines are used in high dependency wards. Sterile ultrasound gel has been recommended for use in those who are critically ill (e.g ITU patients), immunocompromised patients, whenever there is non-intact skin or when accompanying invasive procedures. Sachets of sterile ultrasound gel can be used as needed in these scenarios.
Example products include:
The BSE will update guidance as needed in the future.