Reprocessing Standards for Medical Devices and Equipment in Otolaryngology: Safe Practices for Scopes, Speculums, and Single-Use Devices.

This article details best practices in reprocessing reusable and single-use devices in otolaryngology, with particular attention to flexible fiberoptic endoscopes/nasophyarngoscopes, nasal speculums, and other clinic and operating room instruments. High-risk devices require sterilization, whereas lower risk devices may be reprocessed using various disinfection procedures. Reprocessing practices have implications for adequacy, efficiency, and cost. Nuanced understanding of procedures and their rationale ensures delivery of safe, ethical, and quality patient care. PMID: 30262168 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Source: The Medical Clinics of North America - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: Otolaryngol Clin North Am Source Type: research