Adenosine Triphosphate Bioluminescence Test of the Nasal Spray Nozzles Attached to an Ear-nose-throat Treatment Unit

Abstract

To report a proper protocol for cleaning and disinfecting the nozzles attached to ear-nose-throat (ENT) treatment unit, contamination of nasal spray nozzle, nasal speculum, and suction tube before and after use was assessed by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence test. The measured ATP was expressed as relative light units (RLU).

There were no statistical differences in RLU scores among the nasal spray nozzles, nasal speculums, and suction tubes before patient use. Nozzle RLU scores increased after patient use. The RLU scores (mean ± SD) of the nasal spray nozzles before use was 12 ± 7.1, increasing to 30 ± 28.7 after patient use. The RLU scores of the nasal speculums increased to 9,722 ± 12,398.9 after patient use. The RLU scores of the suction tubes increased to 88,366 ± 106,839.3 after patient use. Increased RLU scores of spray nozzles were statistically lower than those of nasal speculums and suction tubes.

In conclusion, nasal spray nozzles should be wiped with a mid-level disinfectant after use. Alternatively, the nozzle tips should be changed between patients. These recommendations should be considered when developing protocols for cleaning and disinfection of nasal spray nozzles used in conjunction with ENT treatment units.