Healthcare worker feedback on duodenoscope reprocessing workflow and ergonomics

Area of Science:

• Healthcare quality and safety
• Medical device reprocessing
• Human factors engineering

Background:

• Duodenoscope reprocessing is critical for patient safety.
• Previous studies have not fully addressed human factors in reprocessing.
• This study focuses on workflow and ergonomics in duodenoscope reprocessing.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess duodenoscope precleaning and manual cleaning times.
• Identify human factors challenges in reprocessing workflow and ergonomics.
• Determine best practices for duodenoscope reprocessing.

Main Methods:

• A confidential, qualitative, online survey was developed.
• The survey targeted healthcare workers (HCWs) involved in duodenoscope cleaning.
• Survey data was collected from December 2020 to January 2021.

Main Results:

• 341 HCWs completed the survey.
• Most precleaning took ≤10 minutes; manual cleaning took 16-30 minutes.
• Respondents reported time pressures, fatigue, and discomfort during cleaning.

Conclusions:

• Facilities should optimize reprocessing workspaces with adjustable surfaces.
• Training HCWs on validated instructions and providing step-by-step guidance is essential.
• Mentoring and retaining experienced staff are crucial for effective duodenoscope reprocessing.