An Analysis of the Contaminants on Otoscopes of Otolaryngology Residents: An Observational Study

The study was conducted to learn if the otoscope, a noncritical medical device, used by ENT residents harbor pathogenic organism. This study was conducted in a medical teaching hospital in India. Total of 38 otoscopes of ENT residents were examined after taking samples using sterile cotton swabs from otoscope speculum and otoscope head and both bacterial and fungal culture were studied. The study showed that 11 otoscope heads (28.94%) and 11 otoscope speculums (28.94%) out of the 38 otoscopes studied showed bacterial growth. Most commonly isolated bacteria were skin commensals followed by Klebsiella species. Fungal growth was seen in 3 out of 38 otoscope Speculums (7.89%). All 3 fungi isolated during the study belonged to Aspergillus species. Training residents regarding hygiene of medical equipments is necessary. Residents must be periodically assessed regarding their practice in handling medical equipments.