On Sat, 6 Jul 2002, Jodine Chase wrote: With respect, this issue of pump sharing comes up from time to time on
LactNet, and it troubles me that one of the arguments that is used against
purchasing a used pump is the possibility of transmitting HIV. 
.... [But]  a fragile virus and would not survive once its carrying body fluid had dried. ....
Using the fear of HIV transmission as a tool to keep people from buying a
used pumps is not appropriate, and I think has the potential to harm the
credibility of the LC who delivers this message.

Good morning.  I'd like to add to Jodine's comments.  We are in a field where evidence-based care is important in providing the best care we know to mothers and babies (rather than the rationale for bad practice, "this is how we've always done it").  It is also important to our credibility - which is the issue Jodine raised.  Surely when claims are made in the infection-control area they should similarly be evidence-based?  If we don't have this knowledge, that's where we should seek it out before making a statement.  There are more pertinent disadvantages of buying and using second-hand pumps - e.g. inefficiency because of worn/perished rubber parts.
       Virginia
        in Brisbane

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