Reprocessing of Flexible Endoscopes

June 5, 2018 | Health System Risk Management

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Ineffective reprocessing of flexible endoscopes can have devastating consequences for patients—and for a facility's bottom line. Protecting patients and the institution requires developing an effective reprocessing protocol, following that protocol without exception, and selecting and using compatible devices and methods.

Endoscope reprocessing problems have plagued many healthcare institutions over the years. One report estimates that between 2005 and 2012, there were 30,000 patient recalls due to reprocessing lapses (Dyrda).

In addition, a number of high-profile endoscopy-related infectious outbreaks have been reported in the news, including the following:

ECRI has identified reprocessing failures as a top 10 health technology hazard and a top 10 patient safety concern for the past several years; the topic appeared on both the Top 10 Health Technology Hazards for 2018  and the Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns for Healthcare Organizations for 2018 lists. These events illustrate why such problems continue to occur: reprocessing endoscopes is a complicated matter.

Flexible endoscopes are used to perform minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. These devices can be guided through narrow, winding routes, such as the digestive tract or bronchial passages, to allow physicians to view and access internal body structures less invasively than would otherwise be possible. Because they are used within the body, flexible endoscopes become contaminated during use. Thus, they must be reprocessed between uses to reduce the risk of spreading infection among patients.

[Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns...

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