machines are just a few examples of devices that are compatible with
X but not with X1.
Because patient safety is the first priority, and rightfully so, some
facilities might feel a compromise is unavoidable. Maybe you can't
afford to wait long enough for a compatible disinfectant to dry and
effectively kill potentially harmful microorganisms, so you switch to a
wipe with a shorter kill time that isn't compatible with the plastic.
Although this might save time, you're causing another problem down
the line.
What you can do
Here are 6 proactive steps you can take to limit the damage of envi-
ronmental stress cracking:
• Recognize that there is no single cleaner or cleaning process that
will work with all devices.
• Review manufacturers' information to identify recommended proce-
dures and compatible cleaning solutions and wipes. If this information
is not provided, contact the manufacturer and request the information
needed. If the manufacturer is unable to provide this information, con-
sider purchasing alternative instruments when it's time to buy replace-
ments.
• Make recommended cleaning instructions and suitable cleaners
easily accessible by all clinical and equipment maintenance staff.
• Instruct staff to use only cleaning solutions and wipes that are rec-
ommended for use with the equipment to be cleaned, and to allow suf-
ficient wet and dry times per cleaning agent and device instructions.
• Regularly inspect all plastic components and moving parts for
deterioration and wear. Clinical engineering can inspect various
devices regularly and look for signs of cracking, crazing and other
Infection Prevention
IP
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