Methodology for the Development of a Standard Operating Procedure for Reprocessing Flexible Endoscope, Taking into Account the Epidemiological Risks

Abstract

Relevance. Widespread use of endoscopic methods in diagnosis and treatment increases the potential risks of infection of patients in case of improper handling of flexible endoscopes. The main cause of the problem is inattention, low level of competence of personnel. One of the best solutions to this problem is to provide documentation (standard operating procedure – SOP) regulating the processes of handling flexible endoscopes in medical organizations in order to minimize the human factor.Aim. The Development of the SOP for processing of a flexible nasal pharyngeal mirror adjusted for the epidemiological risks of nonsterile endoscopic interventions.Materials & Methods. The epidemiological risks of non-sterile endoscopic interventions were evaluated on the basis of scientific publications and statutory regulations, and the example of SOP was introduced for the flexible nasal pharyngeal mirror.Results. Considering the factors, causing development of infections, related to delivery of health care, and requirements of the sanitary law, a sample of SOP was designed for manual processing of the flexible nasal pharyngeal mirror. Moreover, The main courses were defined, which should be followed by health-care workers while developing of SOP in a healthcare organization.Conclusions. The standardization of the procedure of processing of the flexible endoscopes allows to perform manipulations after clearly developed algorithm, excludes misunderstanding from the stuff, reduces the quantity of faults and mistakes and, as result, reduces probability of the healthcare-associated infections (HAI).