Curos for preventing infections when using needleless connectors

The Curos disinfecting cap (3M) is a single-use device which is placed over the needleless connector of vascular access lines. It contains a foam that is impregnated with 70% isopropyl alcohol, which acts as an antiseptic.

The cap can stay in place for up to 7 days, but must be replaced with a new cap if it is removed.

Curos is supplied individually or in strips of 10. It received a class IIa CE mark in September 2016.

Curos avoids the need to manually disinfect needleless connectors. The company claims that it differs from technologies with a similar purpose because:

• it has a wide spectrum of antimicrobial action

• it is easy and convenient to use

• its design makes it easier to attach and harder to dislodge

• its distinctive green colour avoids confusion with other covers.

Curos is twisted onto the end of a needleless connector and should be left in place for at least 1 minute. The company claims that, after 1 minute, the antiseptic will kill 6 microorganisms commonly associated with bloodstream infections.

Curos would be used as part of a bundle of care for preventing infections when using vascular access lines. It is intended to replace the use of alcohol wipes or solution.

The company provides online training videos for staff using Curos, and further training if needed.

The unit cost of a Curos cap in the company's submission is £0.32 (including VAT).