The latest VDH HAI High Sign newsletter, which is focused on important updates on healthcare-associated infections (HAI), includes reminders about the proper cleaning and disinfection of blood glucose monitors (glucometers) to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. Remember, the Standards for Licensed Assisted Living include infection control measures for use of these devices. 

Read the full article from the HAI High Sign Newsletter (July/August 2021) 

Cleaning & Disinfection of Blood Glucose Monitors. Did you know that proper cleaning and disinfection of a blood glucose monitor (glucometer) is a very important step to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens to residents and patients? According to the FDA, CMS and CDC, blood glucose meters (BGMs) can become contaminated with blood and, if used for multiple residents, must be cleaned and disinfected after each use according to manufacturer’s instructions for multi-patient use.

Failure to properly clean (removal of organic soil) and disinfect (microbicidal process) blood glucose devices between uses has been implicated in multiple outbreaks of viral illnesses in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in other healthcare  settings. A BGM should be cleaned and disinfected after each use following the manufacturer’s instructions using an EPA registered disinfectant that is effective against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.  Note that 70% ethanol solutions are not effective against viral bloodborne pathogens, and the use of 10% bleach solutions may lead to physical degradation of the device. Healthcare personnel should consult with the manufacturer of the BGM to ensure the disinfectant is compatible with the meter/device.

Additionally, CDC recommends the use of single-use, auto-disabling fingerstick devices in settings where assisted blood glucose monitoring is performed. This practice prevents inadvertent reuse of fingerstick devices for more than one person. Reusable fingerstick devices must never be used for more than one resident or patient.