The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) released updated advice on 10 November about the use of ultrasound gel, replacing interim guidance published in January.
The new document includes the following requirements:
- Sterile single-use gel sachets should be used when invasive procedures are to be performed during the examination.
- For ultrasound exams of nonintact skin or mucous membranes (i.e., transvaginal or transrectal scans), sterile gel should be used both inside and outside the probe cover.
- Exams on severely immunocompromised patients require sterile gel.
- Nonsterile gel should not be decanted from larger gel containers.
- Gel bottles should be dated when opened and used within one month or before they expire.
- Gel bottle tips should be wiped with disinfectant between uses.
The U.K. Society of Radiographers (SoR) was involved in crafting the updated guidance, according to a statement from the SoR.
