area. Your processing and procedural personnel will need to deter-
mine the best way to communicate this information, whether it's
through an electronic system or simply passed along while transport-
ing the dirty scope. This may seem like a simple idea, but time really
does matter. Each manufacturer has a specified time within which
routine processing should be completed. Some manufacturers even
require that processing be completed within an hour of the finished
procedure. Recording the time the procedure was completed gives
personnel the ability to determine how long the endoscope has been
awaiting processing, establish priority order and determine if the man-
ufacturer's recommendations are possible.
2
Mechanically clean
Rather than soaking the scope and its accessories after the
manual clean, use an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER)
to clean scopes (when compatible with the manufacturer's IFUs).
Why this change? As we've seen with the recent outbreaks, procedures
for manual scope processing may be inadequate or inconsistent. They
often vary from one facility to another, and sometimes even within the
same facility. Mechanical processors reduce this variability and also
reduce the potential for breaches in recommended processing proto-
cols due to human error and noncompliance. The evidence backs the
change, too. Using an AER will ensure a scope is exposed to the disin-
fectant for the necessary length of time. Mechanical processing also
thoroughly rinses disinfectants, reducing the potential for patient
injury associated with residual chemicals remaining in scopes. While
mechanical processing may require an initial capital investment, the
consistency associated with it may minimize potential damage and the
need to repair pricey scopes.
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