Infection risk mitigation by simplified IFUs

Source: Pentax Medical

According to Beilenhoff, et al. (2018), it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use (“IFU”) at all times to make sure the duodenoscopes are properly cleaned. Yet, IFUs are not always easy to follow. Manufacturers will increasingly need to adapt their instructions to lower the risk of deviation with the aim of mitigating the risk of infection. Pentax Medical, a division of the Hoya Group, recently started to change their IFUs and explains how.

Step by step approach

Earlier, Muscarella et al. highlighted the importance of detailed cleaning instructions to validate the success of reprocessing and to prevent the transmission of infection via endoscopes. Pentax Medical is committed to improve hygiene in Endoscopic retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Procedure (ERCP). This has resulted in a change in their IFUs, presenting the layout in a more step by step approach. Consisting of a clear overview and comprehensive explanation of endoscope reprocessing. A time line in the upper left corner provides guidance where you are in the reprocessing process – detailing the steps of pre-cleaning, leak testing, manual cleaning, and so forth.

Visual content

Another modification in the new IFUs is the use of visuals to make instructions easier to comprehend. The explanation of each step is supplemented with an image to reduce the risk of deviation from the IFUs. On top of that, the visuals clearly highlight when a step needs to be repeated.

Warnings and pitfalls

Finally, Pentax Medical dedicated a new column in their IFUs to highlighting warnings and pitfalls in every step of reprocessing. This prevents missteps in reprocessing, ultimately working to achieve optimal scope reprocessing and mitigation of the risk of infection.

Source: Pentax Medical

15.09.2019

• disinfection (122)
• endoscopy (142)
• laboratory (1043)
• workflow (461)