Abstract
Nebulizers are recognized as potential healthcare associated infection (nosocomial infection) agents. Microbial contamination was studied in inhaled solutions in ultrasonic nebulizers used in the clinical setting. Microbial contamination was detected in 19% of samples. Damage to medication cups by ultrasonics and backward saliva flow from a corrugated tube were considered possible causes of microbial contamination. No microbial contamination was detected in samples with new medication cups and the use of back-flow adapters.
