Introducing High Level Disinfection & Sterilization

Reprocessing in the Outpatient Surgery Setting

Although these processes often happen out of the patient’s view, they are fundamental to safe surgical care. Every endoscope, instrument, tray, and device that is reused between patients must be processed correctly, consistently, and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for use. The process is not simply “cleaning.” It is a controlled sequence of steps that includes point-of-use treatment, transport, cleaning, inspection, disinfection or sterilization, monitoring, storage, documentation, and staff competency.

COURSE GOALS

The goal for this course is not to turn every attendee into a sterile processing technician. Rather, it is to give your team a practical, high-level understanding of what a safe and survey-ready reprocessing program looks like; where common compliance vulnerabilities occur; and how leadership, clinical staff, infection prevention personnel, and reprocessing staff each contribute to protecting patients.

KEY POINTS TO NOTE

• Reprocessing is a system. A failure at any point— can compromise the integrity of the entire process.

• Improper reprocessing poses a risk to patient safety, staff safety, infection control, survey readiness, and liability.

• Manufacturer instructions for use (IFU) MUST be followed for all equipment, chemicals, devices, etc. Print IFUs all and place them in a binder in the processing room.