This stage is carried out in the procedure room immediately after the examination, before disconnecting the unit from the light source, suction device, and video processor. It is very important to clean and rinse the endoscope inside and out immediately after the procedure to prevent contaminants from drying and hardening.
Action algorithm:
1. Using smooth movements, from the endoscope handle to the distal tip, wipe the flexible part with a lint-free cloth moistened with a detergent solution (hereinafter referred to as the detergent solution);
2. Suction and air/water channels: lower the distal tip into a cup with fresh detergent solution (200 ml). Alternately aspirate liquid and air, finishing the procedure by flushing with air. For thorough endoscope processing, it is recommended to replace the air/water valve with a flushing valve. With this valve, a dual air/water flow is simultaneously delivered through the water and air channels to the distal tip to flush the nozzle. This is the thinnest section of the structure, so it is important to rinse the nozzle carefully to prevent blockage. Such a valve is included in the standard set for each endoscope.
Important! If a different solution composition was used at the end of cleaning, rinse these channels with water for 10 seconds to avoid compatibility issues with the product.
3. The channels are rinsed with water and flushed with air according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Disconnect the endoscope from the equipment (light source, suction device, and video processor), remove the valves, and if it is a video endoscope, put a protective cap on the connector.
5. To move the unit to the “dirty zone,” place it in a container/tray and cover it with a lid.
Leak test
It is necessary to visually inspect the endoscope for damage and determine its leak-tightness according to the procedure described in the manufacturer’s instructions. This stage is very important, as during the inspection you can prevent a breakdown in advance and avoid the ingress of detergents (flooding) during subsequent high-level disinfection (HLD), which may result in repair costs amounting to half the price of the endoscope. Testing is performed manually, regardless of whether this option is available in the reprocessor.
Important! If the endoscope is not leak-tight, it will not be properly disinfected and may become a carrier of infection. Such an endoscope can also cause electric shock to the patient or the physician if electrosurgical instruments are used during treatment.
