Re-using intermittent pneumatic compression garments designed for single-patient-use is a potential source of cross-infection.

The article discusses the results of a study that examines bacterial bio-burden in Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) garments after a single patient use. IPC garments from three different manufacturers were tested and compared with a sample of unused garments. After a single patent use, these garments reportedly have a significant amount of bio-burden which can cause healthcare associated infection (HCAI) and venous thromboembolism (VTE). It is recommended that these garments be for single patient use only.