Preventing bacterial contamination of endoscopes, flexible tubes used to visualize internal body cavities, requires meticulous adherence to multi-step cleaning and disinfection/sterilization procedures. The first step is pre-cleaning at the point of use, which involves wiping the endoscope with a soft cloth or sponge to remove gross debris immediately after the procedure. This prevents organic material from drying and adhering to the endoscope's surfaces, making subsequent cleaning more difficult. Leak testing is then performed to check for any damage to the endoscope's outer sheath. Immersion in water allows for the detection of bu....
Log in to view the answer
