Muestreo de Superficies

Summary

This video script outlines the process of surface sampling for microbial counts, specifically targeting 'Staphylococcus aureus'. It emphasizes the importance of using a template for consistent size to compare microbiological loads in a defined area. The script details the preparation of materials such as gloves, a sponge with a sterile bag, swabs, and a chain of custody form. It also describes the steps for sampling, including wearing protective gear, labeling the sterile bag, and using a sponge to collect samples from both smooth and irregular surfaces. The process involves careful handling, ensuring proper labeling, and storage in a pre-chilled container. Additionally, it covers hand sampling techniques using a swab moistened with neutralizing broth, ensuring thorough coverage of the entire hand.

Takeaways

• 🔬 The script discusses surface sampling for counting indicators such as 'Staphylococcus aureus'.
• 📏 The importance of using a template for surface sampling to compare microbiological loads in a defined area is highlighted.
• 📝 It is necessary to inform the laboratory of the template size for consistent sampling and comparison.
• 🧤 Materials required for sampling include gloves, a sponge with a sterile bag, a swab, a disinfectant solution, a template, a chain of custody form, and a thermal container with cold packs.
• 👷‍♂️ Personal protective equipment like a face shield and mask are essential for avoiding sample contamination.
• 📝 Labeling the sterile bag with sample information using a permanent marker is a crucial step.
• 🧽 For smooth surfaces, a template is placed and a sponge is used to rub the area to collect samples.
• 🔄 Both sides of the sponge are used to ensure complete coverage of the sampling area.
• 🧊 After sampling, the sponge is placed in a sterile bag, labeled, and stored in a pre-chilled thermal container.
• 🦠 When searching for pathogens on smooth surfaces, a template is not necessary, and the goal is to find any bacterial pathogen present.
• 🌡 For irregular surfaces, a swab with neutralizing solution is recommended to reach nooks and crannies.
• 👐 Hand sampling involves labeling with the person's name or employee number and using a swab moistened with neutralizing solution to cover the entire palm, between fingers, and under the nails.

Q & A

What is the purpose of using a template when sampling surfaces for microbiological counts?

The purpose of using a template is to compare the microbiological load in a defined area, ensuring consistency in the size of the area sampled for accurate comparisons.

Why is it important to inform the laboratory about the size of the template used for sampling?

Informing the laboratory about the template size allows them to include this information in the report, which is crucial for maintaining a record of samples and comparing results over time.

What materials are necessary for surface sampling as described in the script?

The necessary materials include gloves, a swab, a sterile sponge with its sterile bag, a disinfectant solution, a template, a chain of custody or log, a pre-disinfected container with refrigerants, and hand sanitizer.

How should one prepare before taking a surface sample to avoid contamination?

One should wear gloves, a mask, and put on a sterile gown. After washing hands and applying hand sanitizer, they should put on a new pair of gloves before handling the sterile sponge.

What is the correct procedure for sampling a smooth surface like a table?

Select the area to be sampled, place the template on the surface, and carefully move it around to avoid contamination. Then, press the sponge against the surface within the area defined by the template to collect the sample.

How should the sponge be handled after collecting the sample from a smooth surface?

The sponge should be placed in its sterile bag, ensuring it is properly labeled, and then stored in a pre-chilled container with refrigerants.

Why is a template not necessary when looking for pathogens on a surface?

A template is not necessary because the goal is to find the presence or absence of pathogens, and any bacteria present on the surface is of interest, not just those within a defined area.

What is the recommended tool for sampling irregular surfaces?

The recommended tool for irregular surfaces is a swab with neutralizing broth, which can reach small and hard-to-access areas, such as crevices.

How should hands be sampled for microbiological analysis?

Hands should be sampled by breaking the seal of the swab to ensure the broth is wet, then rubbing the entire palm, between the fingers, and under the nails with the swab, ensuring full coverage.

What should be done after collecting a hand sample to ensure proper handling?

After collecting the hand sample, the swab should be placed back into its container, sealed, and properly labeled before being stored.