Fluid retention in endoscopes: A real-world study on drying effectiveness - 09/05/24
, Krystina M. Hopkins, MPH a, Aaron L. Preston, RN, BSN, CIC b, Charesse Y. James, BSN, RN, CGRN c, Jill E. Holdsworth, MS, CIC, FAPIC, NREMT, CRCST b, Abigail G. Smart, MPH a, Larry A. Lamb, AGTS a, Kari L. Love, RN, MS, CIC, FAPIC dRésumé |
Background |
Outbreaks linked to inadequate endoscope drying have infected numerous patients, and current standards and guidelines recommend at least 10 minutes of forced air for drying channels. This study evaluated a new forced-air drying system (FADS) for endoscopes.
Methods |
Drying was assessed using droplet detection cards; visual inspection of air/water connectors, suction connectors, and distal ends; and borescope examinations of endoscope interiors. Assessments were performed after automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) alcohol flush and air purge cycles and after 10-minute FADS cycles.
Results |
Researchers evaluated drying during encounters with 22 gastroscopes and 20 colonoscopes. After default AER alcohol and air purge cycles, 100% (42/42) of endoscopes were still wet. Substantial fluid emerged from distal ends during the first 15 seconds of the FADS cycle, and droplets also emerged from air/water and suction connectors. Following FADS cycle completion, 100% (42/42) were dry, with no retained fluid detected by any of the assessment methods.
Conclusions |
Multiple endoscope ports and channels remained wet after AER cycles intended to aid in drying but were dry after the FADS cycle. This study reinforced the need to evaluate the effectiveness of current drying practices and illustrated the use of practical tools in a real-world setting.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Highlights |
• | A forced-air drying system with multiple channel connections was evaluated. |
• | Assessments included droplet detection paper and visual inspection with borescopes. |
• | Endoscopes were wet after automated reprocessor alcohol flush and air purge cycles. |
• | Fluid emerged from multiple ports and channels during forced air drying. |
• | No residual fluid was detected following a 10-minute forced air drying cycle. |
Key Words : Borescope, Colonoscope, Gastroscope, Forced-air drying
Plan
| Conflicts of interest: CLO, KMH, AGS, and LAL are employees of Ofstead & Associates, Inc., which has received research grants, study materials, educational materials, or consulting contracts from 3M Company, Advanced Health Solutions, Advanced Sterilization Products, Ambu, Boston Scientific Corporation, Cleanis, Healthmark Industries, Laborie, Lumicell, Neptune, and Steris/Cantel/Medivators. ALP, CYJ, JEH, and KLL have nothing to disclose. |
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| Funding/support: This study was supported by an unrestricted research grant from Healthmark Industries. The sponsor was not involved in designing or conducting the study, collecting data, interpreting findings, or preparing this manuscript. |
Vol 52 - N° 6
P. 635-643 - juin 2024 Retour au numéro
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