ECRI's recommended protocol for reprocessing immersible flexible endoscopes

In June 1994, ECRI published its recommended reprocessing protocol for immersible flexible endoscopes (Health Devices, 23[6]). Based on a review of recent problem reports in our database and questions from our member hospitals regarding appropriate flexible endoscope reprocessing techniques, we determined that some hospitals are unclear about when it is necessary to fully dry the channels of flexible endoscopes following reprocessing with liquid chemical germicides. In this article, we clarify when drying is needed and present recommendations to help ensure proper reprocessing.