Operational Update – July 2026

Hey Folks,

A day late but just a couple of things for your weekend reading pleasure…

 

 

POCUS Machine – NEW Low Level Disinfection Process

Infection Prevention and Control has new guidance on low level disinfection for cleaning the POCUS machines to keep our patients safe.

 

TLDR Version

What:  Cleaning of POCUS Machine/Probes

When: TODAY

Big Picture Take Aways

  • YOU will need to clean the probe and machine with Oxivir wipes after each patient use
  • YOU will need to place a plastic cover with a green ‘CLEAN’ sticker (with a date) over the probe once clean
  • Supplies will be in the POCUS machine tray

 

 

Longer/Detailed Version:

  • The POCUS machine and probes have been found to be unsanitary with bodily fluids, etc. A new process is now required by Infection Prevention and Control for visual confirmation that the probe is clean prior to use.
  • The process detailed here is for low-level disinfection, which includes any exam performed on intact skin and for PIV placements.  This process will be used for the majority of our applications in the ED:
    • Use the probes as you typically would
      • Please use a probe cover/tegaderm if you are placing a PIV or coming in contact with bodily fluids
    • Once exam complete, please wipe the probe and the machine down with an Oxivir wipe
    • Then place a clear plastic cover over the clean probe followed by a green sticker (with date written) that states it is CLEAN and ready for use
      • Please do NOT put the green sticker directly on the probe
  • The supplies to do this are in the bin for all 3 POCUS machines (B and D Team, as well as ED Extension)
    • Backup supplies are in the laceration supply cabinet in the main ED and the supply room in ED Extension
  • The CAs will perform a backup check of the POCUS machine twice daily
  • There is an additional process that is being operationalized for high-level disinfection for non-intact skin or mucosal surfaces, but the hospital is still confirming the details…more to come.
  • Thank you to Cindy and the US Crew for being champions of this initiative

 

 

 

CARE Intern – Updates

The new interns are now finishing their 3rd week and getting into the groove of our ED, including comfort rounding and transport of patients.  A few updates:

  • How to contact them:
    • The interns are now posted on the daily schedule and can be reached via EPIC Chat
    • If you search in EPIC Chat, they will sign on to “ED CARE Intern” group chat (see picture below)
  • They should be coming to the charting areas to introduce themselves, but be on the lookout for the blue vests – we hope to distribute them next week so the interns have better visibility

 

 

 

Please reach out to us if you have questions or concerns.  We are open to any and all feedback. 😊

Thanks,

Andy, Ashley, and Jason

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