Improving Quality and Safety in the Endoscopy Unit (On-Demand) | August 2023-Infection Control in Endoscopy Nuts and Bolts

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Jim Collins, the Endoscopy Accreditation Nurse for the Digestive Disease and Surgical Institute at the Cleveland Clinic, discusses infection prevention in endoscopy. He begins by highlighting that endoscope-associated infections (EAIs) are a small component of infection prevention in endoscopy units. He identifies various factors that contribute to infections, such as improper change or malfunctioning of irrigation tubings, absence of required check valves, and improper reprocessing of endoscopic accessories. Collins also emphasizes the importance of good hand hygiene and proper use of personal protective equipment in preventing infections. He mentions that infection control standards are often cited during accreditation surveys, and provides specific standards related to high-level disinfection and sterilization of equipment, cleaning and low-level disinfection of devices, storage of endoscopes, and correct use of personal protective equipment. Collins discusses the detailed process of endoscope reprocessing and highlights common breakdowns and human factors that contribute to deficiencies in reprocessing. He emphasizes the need for appropriate personal protective equipment, proper hand hygiene, and environmental hygiene. Collins also discusses quality assurance issues, traceability of endoscopes, routine equipment maintenance, and what to do if an infection is suspected. He concludes by highlighting the importance of adhering to meticulous cleaning standards for patient safety.

Asset Subtitle

Jim Collins, BS RN CNOR

Keywords

endoscopy

infection prevention

endoscope-associated infections

hand hygiene

personal protective equipment

reprocessing breakdowns