[Cystic fibrosis: physiotherapy and the risk of cross infection].
BACKGROUND
Respiratory infections play a deleterious role in the progression of patients suffering from cystic fibrosis. Cross infections and epidemics have been documented in these patients, justifying a rigorous prevention regime.


BACKGROUND
This prevention regime concerns all health workers and rests on various recommendations. Segregation of patients and hand hygiene are important factors. Respiratory equipment and, more specifically, nebulisers represent a potential source of bacterial contamination requiring special attention. In the same perspective the risks related to the health care environment, particularly the lung function laboratory, should not be ignored. The modalities of prevention sometimes have a significant psychological impact that may often be reduced by careful explanation.


CONCLUSIONS
In view of the time spent in contact with these patients the physiotherapists are naturally involved in this prevention regime which is an integral part of their treatment.
Reychler
G
G
Service de Médecine physique et Réadaptation, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc (UCL), Bruxelles. gregory.reychler@clin.ucl.ac.be
Simon
A
A
Lebecque
P
P
D001945:Breathing Exercises / Q000009:adverse effects; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000150:complications / Q000382:microbiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004202:Disinfectants; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006801:Humans; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*
D004202:Disinfectants