Improving Quality and Safety in the Endoscopy Unit (Virtual)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The panel discussed key topics in endoscopy quality and safety, including the use of sterile versus tap water for scope irrigation. Evidence suggests tap water is as safe, but manufacturer instructions and hospital guidelines currently favor sterile water; an ASGE guideline on this is forthcoming. Use of simethicone in scope channels is discouraged due to biofilm risk, though low dilutions flushed through biopsy ports are acceptable with proper cleaning. Strategies to optimize room turnover times include analyzing unit-specific workflows, reallocating tasks for parallel processing, and improving communication, particularly with anesthesia providers. Fire risk assessments during procedure timeouts, recommended by the Joint Commission and ASA, are being increasingly adopted to enhance patient safety, especially when electrocautery is used. While no national benchmarks for procedure turnover exist, units can track and compare internal data to set realistic goals. The course emphasized balancing safety and efficiency without overburdening staff, sharing practical insights for enhancing endoscopy unit performance.

Asset Subtitle

Moderator: Brian C. Jacobson, MD, MPH, FASGE

Keywords

endoscopy quality

sterile vs tap water

scope irrigation

simethicone biofilm risk

room turnover optimization

fire risk assessment