1231 CE Online (1)

Figure 16 – Check the Light Output with a Portable Light Source

Less than 30% of the light post should have any visible black dots. The greater the blackened area, the dimmer the light will be when the endoscope is used in surgery. Send the endoscope for repair if any one of these defects is present. See section on “REPAIRS” for proper protocol before sending endoscopes for repair. Packaging for Sterilization or Storage Flexible endoscopes are considered heat-sensitive endoscopes. Low-temperature gas sterilizers are commonly used to provide terminal sterilization for flexible endoscopes. The flexible endoscope is placed into a suitable sterilization tray with internal sterility assurance indicator(s) and the following is to be completed before wrapping or containerizing. 1. Always, always, always connect the gas cap (ie, pressure equalization cap) to the endoscope’s connector (the same connector used for the leakage test)! The covering of the flexible endoscope cannot withstand the pressure gradient created during sterilization. If the gas cap is not connected before sterilization, the covering on the outside or inside of the channel can split or crack. 2. Ensure that the flexible endoscope’s insertion tube is not crimped or severely bent in order to fit into the tray, as this may damage the internal fibers. 3. Ensure that the insertion tube and distal tip are secure in the tray so they do not become crushed or pinched during sterilization or transport. Wrap the tray or container and proceed with low-temperature sterilization. More information regarding low-temperature sterilization is provided in the next section of this learning activity. A flexible endoscope may be placed into clean storage following high-level disinfection. The following steps ensure safe storage for the flexible endoscope. 1. Ensure that the decontamination process that is prescribed pre-storage is completed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the facility’s protocol. 2. Complete the disinfection process before storing.

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