Nosocomial infections develop in hospitals leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The ultrasonogram is the most commonly used imaging modality in tertiary care hospitals. Ultrasound equipment comes into direct contact with patients and practitioners during scanning procedures, enabling it to be a potential vehicle for the spread of nosocomial infections. The prevention of disease transmission between patients is of primary importance in sonography department. The aim of the present study is to assess the microbiological contamination of the ultrasound probes and to formulate effective decontamination guidelines for the ultrasound probes.

Keywords: Nosocomial infections, Ultrasound Probes, Ultrasound Coupling Gel, Decontamination.