Improving Quality and Safety in the Endoscopy Unit (Virtual) | October 2024-11_Collins

11_Collins_Infection Control Nuts and Bolts

Pdf Summary

The document, titled "Infection Control in Endoscopy: Nuts and Bolts," authored by James Collins, provides an overview of key issues related to infection control in endoscopy settings. Collins is the Endoscopy Accreditation Program Manager at Cleveland Clinic and has disclosed financial relationships with companies including Boston Scientific and Steris/U.S. Endoscopy.<br /><br />The document highlights critical findings from surveys regarding infection control deficiencies within endoscopy practices. These include frequent failures such as not changing tubing between patients, malfunctioning or absent check valves, improperly processed accessories, and inadequate medication management. Importantly, contamination risks include the environment and caregivers' hands, necessitating stringent personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols and diligent hand hygiene.<br /><br />A key component of the document is the detailed endoscope reprocessing checklist, which outlines steps including pre-cleaning, leak testing, manual cleaning, and high-level disinfection. Reported deficiencies in these processes include incomplete brushing (57%), inadequate drying of channels (55%), and other cleaning lapses.<br /><br />Occupational concerns affecting staff include the pressure to work quickly, physical discomfort, and exposure to chemical smells, which can all interfere with job performance.<br /><br />Environmental cleanliness is emphasized, particularly the use of bleach-containing disinfectants for areas suspected of contamination with C. difficile.<br /><br />The document also addresses the importance of adhering to medication practices, proper sharps container management, and meticulous storage protocols. Recommendations for creating a safety culture include ongoing education, establishing infection prevention plans, and enforcing stringent practice policies.<br /><br />The document concludes with questions that evaluate understanding of best practices in infection control, such as the correct use of disposable gowns, the importance of observing wet times for disinfectant wipes, and ensuring meticulous cleaning practices in the endoscopy unit. <br /><br />To ensure high standards, collaboration with professional guidelines from organizations like ASGE and SGNA is encouraged, emphasizing endoscopy’s life-saving potential and the rarity of infections when following established protocols.

Keywords

infection control

endoscopy

James Collins

Cleveland Clinic

endoscope reprocessing

personal protective equipment

hand hygiene

environmental cleanliness

safety culture

professional guidelines