1231 CE Online (1)

Sterilizers using peracetic acid are considered immediate-use sterilizers. The machine requires a drain, water plumbing and special filters for the water input. A flexible endoscope using this process will be wet when the cycle is done, which requires the endoscope to be used immediately following sterilization. Consult the endoscope manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that an endoscope can be sterilized using this method. Endoscopes can be processed with chemicals for high-level disinfection (HLD) or immediate-use sterilization. Common chemicals for either HLD or immediate-use sterilization include ortho-Phthalaldehyde (OPA) or glutaraldehyde. Check the following before proceeding with chemical processing. 1. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended chemicals and exposure times to achieve either HLD or sterilization. 2. Consult the Spaulding classification system before processing an endoscope to ensure the chosen method aligns with the infection risk level. 3. Review the chemical’s label for handling, exposure time, usage, and warnings before proceeding. HLD chemicals should be used in a hooded area to evacuate any fumes from the product. Always check the endoscope manufacturer’s instructions before using a disinfectant for HLD or immediate-use sterilization. FLEXIBLE AND RIGID ENDOSCOPIC SUPPORT EQUIPMENT There are several pieces of support equipment that are essential for the performance of rigid and flexible endoscopes, which may include the following. • Light Source. Equipment that produces the light for the scope. • Fiberoptic Light Cable. Composed of thousands of glass fibers that are coated with a layer of glass to create a bundle. These fibers carry the light from the light source through the fiber bundles to the end of the endoscope. • Camera and Monitors. A camera attached to the eyepiece that can transmit the image onto a monitor that allows the surgeon, as well as the surgical team, to view the body structures without having to look directly into the eyepiece of the endoscope. • Video Printer, CD Burner, Memory Stick. Devices that allow the surgeon to videotape, take still pictures or store images for future use, or to add as docu- mentation to the permanent medical record. • Fluid Pump or Insufflator. Used to distend the organ or body space for better visualization. • Operative instrumentation. Variety of instruments that can aid in surgical procedures (eg, scissors, graspers, electrosurgery desiccators, biopsy forceps, retractors). • Cannula/Trocar Sets. Used to create a passage from the outside of the body into a cavity or organ.

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