Improving Quality and Safety In Your Endoscopy Unit: On-Demand | October 2022 OLQUALOCT22-09_Collins

09_Collins_Infection Control Nuts and Bolts

Pdf Summary

This document discusses the topic of infection control in endoscopy procedures. The author acknowledges having financial relationships with certain companies. Endoscope Associated Infections (EAI) are often unrecognized due to their low frequency and the long time between colonization and infection. Inadequate surveillance of outpatient procedures and the use of usual enteric flora as pathogens further contribute to the problem. Issues with cleaning and disinfection of endoscopes have led to EAI, including contamination by automated endoscope reprocessors (AER). Other factors that contribute to infection risk in endoscopy include improper handling of tubing, water bottles, biopsy forceps, contaminated hands of caregivers, environmental concerns, and the reuse of syringes, needles, and multi-dose vials. The document also highlights the top non-compliant findings from the Joint Commission, including reducing infection risk from equipment, implementing infection prevention and control plans, and managing risks related to utility systems. The standard IC 02.02.01 focuses on reducing the risk of infections associated with medical devices, with a specific emphasis on performing intermediate and high level disinfection and sterilization of medical equipment. The document includes data on deficiencies in endoscope reprocessing, as well as occupational concerns. It emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene, maintaining a clean environment, safe medication administration practices, and creating a culture of safety in the GI unit. Quality assurance issues, recommendations, reporting, and notification protocols are also discussed. The document concludes by emphasizing that while infections in endoscopy procedures are rare, adherence to meticulous cleaning standards is crucial.

Keywords

infection control

endoscopy procedures

Endoscope Associated Infections

surveillance

cleaning and disinfection

infection risk

contaminated hands

medical devices

occupational concerns

meticulous cleaning standards