ASGE Masterclass: Infection Control (Live Virtual) | June 2021-Ins and Outs of the Endoscope: Drying and Visualization

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video was a presentation on the topic of endoscope drying and its importance in reducing infection transmission during endoscopy. The speaker, Dr. Luke John Day, discussed the need for adequate endoscope drying to prevent the replication and survival of pathogens on the interior and exterior of endoscopes. Improper or inadequate drying can lead to the proliferation of waterborne microorganisms and the formation of biofilm, increasing the risk of infection transmission to patients. The speaker highlighted the variation in endoscope drying practices across different endoscopy units and the lack of consensus in reprocessing guidelines regarding drying standards. He emphasized the importance of continuous and simultaneous delivery of regulated medical-grade air into all endoscope channels for complete drying. The speaker also discussed different methods for assessing endoscope drying, such as visual inspection, qualitative tools, and quantitative methods to detect bacteria and biofilm. He touched upon the controversy surrounding the use of alcohol flushes and the potential risks and benefits associated with their use. The speaker recommended automation in the drying process, the development of clear and consistent reprocessing instructions, ongoing training and competency assessment for reprocessing staff, and the consideration of storage time and endoscope storage cabinets. The presentation concluded with a discussion on future research needs and unanswered questions in the field of endoscope drying. No credits were mentioned in the transcript.

Asset Subtitle

Luke John Day, MD, FASGE

Keywords

endoscope drying

infection transmission

pathogens

biofilm

reprocessing guidelines

medical-grade air

visual inspection

automation