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E N D O S C O P Y
PRODUCT
PLACEMENT
Take care
when loading
endoscopes
in automatic
endoscope
reprocessors
to eliminate
risk of compression
damage.
and adaptors —
they must have valuated instructions for
use — to attach
scopes to AERs. The
techs I've seen who
use homemade
adapters certainly
get high marks for
ingenuity, but would
fail reprocessing
exams.
When loading scopes, configure them in ways that will avoid compression damage when closing the AER's lid. Properly placing scopes
also prevents harm to their delicate components — avoid placing
scopes in positions that crimp or bend the insertion tube, which could
cause undue strain on the angulation wheels — and ensures effectiveness of the reprocessing cycle.
Don't push "start" and assume AERs will take care of the rest. Make
sure cycles begin correctly, and read over each cycle's report to ensure
the recommended time, temperature and minimal effective concentration of the disinfectant have been reached.
Newer AERs incorporate an alcohol flush at the end of the reprocessing cycle to promote drying and keep the scope's channels clear of
residual water that could cause harmful bacteria to grow while the
instruments are stored between uses. But still double-check to ensure
scopes are completely dry and free of residue upon removal from the
AER. Also ensure there is minimal alcohol left in channels following the
automated drying purge.
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | D E C E M B E R 2013
