2 2 S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P A T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E M A Y 2 0 1 6
pressurize the scope and place it in a sink large
enough for it to be loosely coiled and completely
immersed. Manipulate the scope's knobs and ele-
vator control for a minimum of 30 seconds while
checking to see if changes in pressure occur. If the
pressure remains constant, the scope is air tight,
and cleaning and disinfecting can begin.
3. Manual cleaning
Prepare fresh cleaning solution in a sink for each
endoscope according to the solution manufacturer's
written instructions for required temperature, con-
centration and water quality. Place the endoscope in
the solution while ensuring it remains completely
submerged throughout the cleaning process. Use a
lint-free cloth or sponge to clean the scope's exteri-
or. Refer to the scope manufacturer's instructions
for use to determine the size, length and width of the
brush needed to clean the channels, cylinders, open-
ings and forceps elevator housing. Flush the scope's
channels with the cleaning solution and rinse the
exterior surfaces with clean water until all trace of
the cleaning solution is rinsed away. The manual
cleaning of the scope should continue until all visi-
ble debris is removed. All removable parts must also
be soaked, scrubbed and rinsed.
4. Assessing AERs
Strongly consider automatic endoscope reproces-
sors (AERs) with channel sensors that ensure rec-
