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E N D O S C O P Y
But are nurses allowed to advance and manipulate endoscopes during exams? Yes, according to a position statement (see "Manipulation of Endoscopes During Can nurses
advance and
Endoscopic Procedures" at
tinyurl.com/m4l7ko2) released by the Society of manipulate
Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates. The
endoscopes
document states nurses can advance or withduring exams?
draw endoscopes under direct supervision of
Yes, according
endoscopists as long as they have knowledge
to an SGNA
of endoscope manipulation techniques and
position
understand the complications associated with
endoscopy. "Manipulation refers only to the act statement.
of advancing or withdrawing the endoscope
under the direct supervision of the endoscopist," reads the statement.
Nurses must have full views of the colon's lumen on a video screen
throughout procedures and be able to identify symptoms of complications and initiate appropriate interventions under the direction of the
— Daniel Cook
endoscopist, says the SGNA.
Tools or technique?
"The techniques and technologies we're employing help all of our doctors provide the highest quality colonoscopy every time," says Dr.
Lloyd, who values the developments that help him perform more complete exams, but cautions against relying too heavily on innovative
endoscope designs. "I'm not sure it's the ultimate answer," he says.
"Effective colonoscopy also depends on how carefully and conscientiously you look." OSM
E-mail dcook@outpatientsurgery.net.
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