Bacterial contamination of an anesthetic agent
Article Abstract:
Strict sterile technique must be followed in administering the anesthetic propofol, to prevent infection of patients. A 1995 study showed that the outbreaks of postoperative infections in 7 hospitals were caused by contamination of propofol by anesthesia personnel. Sterile technique was violated by reusing syringes, transferring syringes between operating rooms, and failure to wear gloves and clean vials appropriately. These and other outbreaks since 1991 may be related to the improper use of 50- and 100-milliliter vials of the anesthesia. These large vials should be used with infusion pumps, but are often used with syringes in several procedures. Several warnings and instructions come in the packages and on vials of propofol. If these instructions are not followed the FDA may have to limit the use of this and other lipid base anesthesias that can support bacterial growth.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1995
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The treatment of hypothermia
Article Abstract:
The choice of treatment for hypothermia, often caused by exposure to weather or cold water, may be guided by the severity of cold and the equipment available. Hypothermia means the body temperature has fallen below normal. In mild cases, the patient can be rewarmed with heated air, blankets and warm intravenous fluids. Severe cases cause multiple organ system failure and are frequently fatal. Active rewarming with the heart-lung machine can restore normal temperature and maintain blood circulation, and sometimes successfully revives these patients.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1997
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