Background and Study Aims:
Disinfection and surveil- lance of it are important for ensuring safety in gastrointestinal
endoscopy. The aim of this survey was to assess the current status of disinfection
in gastrointestinal endoscopy units in Spain.
Materials and Methods:
An anonymous questionnaire on cleaning and disinfection methods was sent to gastrointestinal
endoscopy units at 244 public hospitals in Spain. A minimum standard of disinfection
(MSD) was defined to evaluate the appropriateness of disinfection practices.
Results:
A total of 144 centers responded (58 %). All units perform manual washing of endoscopes
before disinfection. Automatic washers are available in only 23 % of the centers.
Selective cleaning of internal channels is systematically performed in 85 % of the
centers. Glutar aldehyde-based disinfectants are the most commonly employed (84 %
of units). The time of exposure to the disinfectant is at least 10 min in 97 % of
units, but 20 min or more in only 36 % of them. Endoscopic accessories are sterilized
in 57 % of centers. The MSD was complied with by 79 % of the units evaluated. Compliance
with the MSD was significantly lower in small units (P = 0.0005) performing small
numbers of examinations per month. Quality control tests on the efficacy of disinfection
methods are conducted at 66 % of the centers. Specialized personnel record disinfection
procedures in 85 % of the centers and supervise them in 55 % of the centers. Half
of the units have inadequate equipment and facilities.
Conclusions:
This survey suggests that cleaning and disinfection practices in gastrointestinal
endoscopy units in Spain have improved in recent years, and that there is a good compliance
with standard guidelines. Most units should improve their equipment and facilities
in order to provide better comfort and safety for patients and staff.
