Improving Quality and Safety In Your Endoscopy Unit: Live and Virtual | October 2022-Guideline

Guideline_ASGE guidelines for safety

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The guidelines for safety in the gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy unit have historically focused on infection control, particularly regarding the reprocessing of endoscopes. However, recent outbreaks related to GI endoscopy have highlighted the need to address potential gaps in the endoscopy care continuum that could impact patient safety. The guidelines aim to provide recommendations for implementing and prioritizing safety efforts in endoscopy units. <br /><br />The guidelines address several issues related to safety in GI endoscopy units. These include structural requirements, such as the size of doors and rooms, traffic patterns in the unit, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The guidelines also provide recommendations for the monitoring and sedation of patients receiving endoscopic procedures. It is suggested that moderate sedation can be safely administered by a non-anesthesia physician who is credentialed and privileged to do so. <br /><br />Additionally, guidelines for staffing requirements in the endoscopy unit are provided. It is recommended that a single registered nurse should be present in the room for patients undergoing routine endoscopy under moderate sedation. Complex procedures may require additional staff for efficiency, but there is no evidence to suggest that additional staff improves patient safety. <br /><br />Furthermore, the guidelines address infection control measures in the endoscopy unit, including proper hand hygiene, use of PPE, safe medication administration practices, and safe handling of potentially contaminated equipment or surfaces. It is recommended that units have written policies and procedures in place for these measures to ensure patient safety.<br /><br />Overall, the guidelines aim to improve patient safety in the GI endoscopy unit by providing evidence-based recommendations for various aspects of care, including structural requirements, infection control, sedation, and staffing. These guidelines can be used to evaluate and implement safety efforts in endoscopy units, with a focus on evidence-based practices that improve outcomes and minimize healthcare costs.

Keywords

GI endoscopy unit

safety guidelines

infection control

reprocessing of endoscopes

patient safety

structural requirements

personal protective equipment

monitoring and sedation

staffing requirements

infection control measures