Enhanced endoscope care
Difference makers in infection control must include the tools and
technologies that improve the effectiveness of endoscope cleaning, a
notoriously difficult and complex process.
"There are more than 100 steps involved in the high-level disinfec-
tion of endoscopes," says Linda Beaver, RN, MSN, MHA, administra-
tor at Gateway Endoscopy Center in St. Louis. "Automating any parts
of the process reduces the possibility of human error and can only
benefit patients, which is always the ultimate goal."
Luckily, there's no shortage of innovative automated options to
bolster proper endoscope reprocessing: borescopes that let staff
examine internal channels for residual bacteria, cleaning verification
systems (ATP testing, for example), pressurized rinse technology,
closed and labeled containers for transport to the reprocessing area
and specialized drying cabinets that ensure internal channels remain
dry during storage. Your facility now has plenty of options to aug-
ment staff performance with automated technology. To determine
the technologies that are right for you, there are several steps you
can take.
"First, look at reprocessing guidelines and recommendations
issued by national associations," says Alison Sonstelie, BS, CHL,
CRCST, supply chain operations manager at Sanford Health in
Fargo, N.D., and president of NoCoast Consulting. "Next, develop a
cost analysis, which should include the useful life of the equipment,
the repair expenses and the cost of treating infections. That creates
a story about why this technology is so important for your facility to
invest in."
Perhaps the most important part of the decision-making process,
says Ms. Sonstelie, is finding out how willing your vendor is to go
above and beyond for you. "We always look for a partnership with
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