Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the level of glass particle contamination from medical ampoules during breakage in nursing practice and their removal by filtration.
Design: Glass medical ampoules were broken-open as instructed and contamination was assessed microscopically.
Methods: Three types of medial ampoules (A, B, C) were used. Dispensation of contents was carried out using 21 or 22 G needles, with and without syringe-filters. Particles were determined by light microscopy. This study was conducted between April 2018 and January 2020.
Results: Glass particles of 0.94-90.70 µm were detected in 94% of all samples. There were 48, 162 and 201 glass particles in groups, A, B and C, respectively. Filtration had no effect in group A but was effective up to 85% in the other groups.
Conclusion: This study confirms that ampoule contents are contaminated with glass particles during the opening procedure, which varies with make and content. Syringe-filter use can be up to 85% effective in their removal.
Impact: Use of syringe-filter can decrease glass particle contamination up to 85%. Innovative nursing studies are needed to minimize or completely avoid particule contamination.
Reference:Erkoc Hut A, Yazici ZA. Glass particle contamination threat in nursing practice: A pilot study. J Adv Nurs. 2021 Apr 14. doi: 10.1111/jan.14847. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33855755.