Ultrasound Probe Cover

Description

An ultrasound probe cover is a single‑use barrier placed over a transducer—and, when needed, portions of its cable—to reduce cross‑contamination and meet the sterility level required by the procedure. It helps protect patients and staff while maintaining probe maneuverability and image quality when used with compatible gel.

When to use

• Endocavity exams (transvaginal, transrectal, transesophageal): Always use a cover; a sterile cover is generally not required in these non‑sterile environments.
• Percutaneous or invasive procedures (e.g., vascular access, biopsies, regional anesthesia, ablations): Use a sterile cover that provides an effective microbial/viral barrier.

Aseptic application

• Ensure the cover fully envelops the probe tip and any cable segment that will enter or be handled within the sterile field.
• Use sterile gel for sterile procedures; replace the cover immediately if torn, slipped, or contaminated.
• Covers are single‑use and should be discarded after each patient.

Materials and compatibility

• Common materials include polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), and natural rubber latex.
• For patients with known or suspected latex allergy, select non‑latex covers.
• If lubrication is needed, use water‑based lubricants with latex products; avoid petroleum or oil‑based lubricants.

Reprocessing considerations

• Endocavitary probes require high‑level disinfection between patients even when a cover is used.
• For transcutaneous probes used with a sterile cover and sterile gel during percutaneous procedures, low‑level disinfection afterward is generally acceptable per institutional policy.