Proper endoscope maintenance will improve patient safety and save money by lengthening the life of the equipment, according to Endoscope Precision Parts in Davie, Fla. Here the company presents eight steps for endoscope reprocessing, based on guidelines from the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates.
1. Pre-clean. Immediately after the procedure, wipe the endoscope with an approved enzymatic solution and flush out channels with a solution to lubricate and loosen debris. Wash the suction, air and water channels according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Test for leaks. Immerse the scope in water and test for leaks, following your manufacturer's instructions.
3. Soak and clean. Using the proper type and amount of enzymatic solution, fill the endoscope channels and soak for the prescribed time. While it is soaking, brush out the channels and clean the valve-ports, all valves, attachments and the exterior of the scope. After the soak, flush out the channels once again and clean behind the device's elevator. Repeat the process if necessary.
4. Rinse. Thoroughly rinse the exterior of the endoscope using clean water. Flush out all channels with the manufacturer-supplied adapters. Repeat this process and then purge channels with air to remove excess water.
5. Disinfect. Fill all channels with the proper disinfectant and then completely submerge the endoscope into the solution. Soak for the prescribed time.
6. Rinse. Completely submerge the endoscope in fresh water and again flush all the channels. Repeat the process if there are any traces of disinfectant on the endoscope.
7. Flush with alcohol and dry. Flush all endoscope channels with the prescribed amount of alcohol-water mixture, which is usually approximately 70-80 percent alcohol. The alcohol aids drying. Wipe the exterior with a cloth and dry all attachments.
8. Storage. Store the endoscope in a well-ventilated container, storing all valves and attachments separately.
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