SGNA Releases Revised Standards of Infection Control in Reprocessing of Flexible GI Endoscopes

The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA) has released the Standards of Infection Control in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2012). Although the transmission of infectious diseases during gastrointestinal endoscopy is rare, further research and emphasis on infection control is vital to the industry. The infection prevention information provided in this document is essential to professionals working in any GI/endoscopy setting to provide safe and effective patient care.

The document includes detailed information on specific areas related to infection control:
Personnel
Education and Training
Quality Assurance
Procedure Rooms
Reprocessing Rooms
Spill Containment Plan

The standards also include endoscope reprocessing protocol for the cleaning and high-level disinfection of endoscopes, from precleaning through storage.

To read the Standards of Infection Control in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes in full, CLICK HERE. The document was written and prepared by the SGNA Practice Committee, which develops practice-related strategies that assist in fulfilling SGNAs mission and goals. The committee also ensures that practice-related products and services are current and that new practice items are developed to meet the needs of members and the industry. Before they reach the public, SGNA practice guidelines undergo a rigorous Board approval and copyediting process to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Source: Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc.

Also from the SGNA:

Guideline for the Use of High-Level Disinfectants and Sterilants for Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes

Statement on Reprocessing of Endoscopic Accessories and Valves and

Statement on Reprocessing of Water Bottles Used During Endoscopy