Duodenoscope Safety Communications 

The environment, equipment and guidelines that inform cleaning procedures are constantly changing putting duodenoscope reprocessing into a state of transition. Reprocessing is constantly becoming more complex and resource intensive, yet can still leave devices contaminated^.2

Duodenoscope reprocessing manuals are complex and can average³

In one study focused on adherence to reprocessing guidelines, only 1,4% of trained staff performed the reprocessing steps correctly.² 

Recently, ESGE and ESGENA collaborated to produce Position Statement on this topic, stressing that regardless of duodenoscope design, there are two crucial points:⁴

- Standardized and validated duodenoscope reprocessing should be performed by appropriately trained, dedicated, and competent staff;
- Microbiological surveillance and regular maintenance of duodenoscopes should be performed to identify any problems at an early stage.

²Ofstead CL, Wetzler HP, Snyder AK, Horton RA. Endoscope Reprocessing Methods: A Prospective Study on the Impact of Human Factors and Automation. Gastroenterol Nurs. 2010; 33(4): 304-311.
³Olympus Reprocessing Manual
⁴ Statement of the European Society of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Nurses and Associates: European Curriculum for endoscope reprocessing. November 2019. esgena.org