1231 CE Online (1)

Operative rigid endoscopes have channels or lumens to allow for irrigation, suctioning, or inserting instruments to perform a variety of surgical procedures, including: cystoscopy, hysteroscopy, operative laparoscopy, ureteroscopy, and bronchoscopy (see Figures 5 and 6). Figure 5 – Operative Rigid Endoscopes Have Channels

Figure 6 – Instruments Used with an Operative Rigid Endoscope

Handling and Cleaning Rigid Endoscopes Always carry or handle a rigid endoscope by the eyepiece, not the shaft. Grasp the endoscope’s ocular lens in the palm of the hand with the light post protruding between the index and second fingers. This prevents the endoscope from being bent from the weight of the eyepiece and minimizes the risk of the endoscope being dropped. Pre-Cleaning the Endoscope in the Patient Care Area The cleaning process should start immediately after the patient’s procedure. Use sterile or tap water or, ideally, enzymatic detergent solution and complete the following steps: 1. Flush the channels with the cleaning solution using a syringe or suction the solution through the channels. 2. Wipe the surfaces with a sponge dampened with water or enzymatic detergent or use an enzymatic detergent sponge.

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