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Updated: May 20, 2026
A Method to Test the Efficacy of Handwashing for the Removal of Emerging Infectious Pathogens
Published on: June 7, 2017
Sequential cohort study comparing chlorine dioxide wipes with automated washing for decontamination of flexible
C Q Phua1, Y Mahalingappa, Y Karagama
1Department of ENT Surgery, Tameside General Hospital, Ashton, UK.
Introduction:
Flexible nasoendoscope is an important tool in otorhinolaryngology practice. The endoscope needs to be decontaminated prior to use in the next patient. The 2005 ENT-UK guidance for cleaning fibre-optic laryngoscopes stated that the ideal disinfecting agent and process should be effective and have low capital and maintenance costs.
Objective:
To compare the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of chlorine dioxide wipes versus automated washer, for decontamination of flexible nasendoscopes.
Methods:
A sequential cohort, in vitro study was performed to test the efficacy of chlorine dioxide wipes and automated washer. Costs were also calculated.
Results:
After deliberate bacterial contamination of the nasendoscope and subsequent decontamination, swab samples from the endoscope showed Staphylococcus epidermidis growth in 2 per cent (1/50 swabs) of the chlorine dioxide wipe group and in 28 per cent (14/50 swabs) of the automated washer group (p = 0.00). Based on a projected 10-year cost calculation, the automated washer was cheaper.
Conclusion:
Further studies are required to test whether these results are replicable. A similar study should be performed using real patients, to check the significance of improper decontamination.
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