Reprocessing practice in digestive endoscopy units of district hospitals

Abstract

An inadequate disinfection of endoscopes and associated accessories can result in the transmission of infections to patients. The aim of this study was to access reprocessing practice in the endoscopy units of Portuguese district general hospitals. An anonymous questionnaire on cleaning and disinfection methods was sent to all endoscopy units of Portuguese district general hospitals. A total of 25 units responded (93%). All endoscopy units performed manual cleaning (including brushing of accessible channels) before disinfection. Automated endoscope reprocessing machines were available in all units. Manual disinfection was performed in only one unit. In 48% of the surveyed units, endoscopes were systematically disinfected before each session, whereas in 16% this was performed only occasionally. The most commonly used disinfectant was peracetic acid (32%). Disposable papillotomes, biopsy forceps, and polipectomy snares were used in nine (36%), six (24%), and 14 (56%) units, respectively. Disposable papillotomes, forceps, and snares were reused in three (12%), two (8%), and three (12%) units, respectively, always after sterilization. Most units did not perform regular evaluation of reprocessing staff competence (60%), regular microbiological inspection (56%), or registry of reprocessing (56%). The data collected suggest that there is a good compliance with standard guidelines. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement mainly in quality assurance.