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Reprocessing practices for gastrointestinal endoscopes: a multicentre study in Egyptian university hospitals
Rehab H El-Sokkary1, Ahmed A Wegdan2, Ahmed A Mosaad1
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
Summary
Healthcare workers showed poor knowledge of gastrointestinal endoscope reprocessing. Compliance with disinfection was high, but endoscope processing and microbiological testing require improvement to prevent infections.
Area of Science:
- Infection Control
- Healthcare Quality Improvement
- Microbiology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal endoscope reprocessing is critical for patient safety.
- Inadequate reprocessing can lead to healthcare-associated infections.
- Assessing current practices is vital for identifying gaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate healthcare worker knowledge and practices in gastrointestinal endoscope reprocessing.
- To assess compliance with reprocessing guidelines and microbiological testing.
- To identify areas for improvement in endoscopy units.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving nursing staff from 10 endoscopy units.
- Knowledge assessed via questionnaire; practices evaluated using a checklist.
- Microbiological testing of reprocessed endoscopes was performed.
Main Results:
- Mean knowledge score was poor (7.5/10).
- Compliance with disinfection was 90%, but endoscope processing compliance was 74%.
- Microbiological analysis detected organisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in some endoscopes post-reprocessing.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in healthcare worker knowledge and endoscope processing practices.
- Strict adherence to pre-cleaning, leak testing, and post-storage disinfection is essential.
- Improved training and monitoring are needed to enhance patient safety in endoscopy units.