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Updated: Sep 6, 2025

Author Spotlight: Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
Published on: March 17, 2023
High-level disinfection evaluation in the ambulatory setting
Maria C Montero1, Angela Helms2, Anessa Mikolajczak2
1Healthcare Epidemiology and Infection Prevention, Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, Geneva, IL.
Abstract:
High level disinfection (HLD) is a complex process, requiring appropriate materials and highly trained personnel. An investigation of the HLD process was performed at an outpatient urology practice upon notification of expired chemical test strips being utilized. Infection Prevention (IP) identified various breaches in the reprocessing of flexible cystoscopes and transrectal prostate biopsy probes. Contributing factors identified were gaps in staff training, availability of all necessary supplies and staff supervision.
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