Implementing the SOHN-endorsed AORN guidelines for reprocessing reusable upper airway endoscopes

ORL Head Neck Nurs. 2012 Winter;30(1):6-15.

Abstract

This is a companion paper to two previous publications on recommended practices for cleaning and reprocessing flexible endoscopes used in Otolaryngology (Burlingame, Arcilla, & McDermott, 2008; Adams & Baker, 2010). In this paper we capture and expand upon the audience question and answer session in which the Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurse (SOHN)--endorsed the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) recommended practices were presented to the SOHN membership (Adams & Waddington, September, 2010). We include additional background information to assist readers in understanding some of the science behind the recommendations and share successful implementation strategies from Otorhinolaryngology (ORL) outpatient nurses and published references.

MeSH terms

  • Biofilms
  • Disinfection / standards*
  • Endoscopes / microbiology*
  • Equipment Contamination / prevention & control*
  • Equipment Reuse
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods*
  • Otolaryngology / instrumentation*
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases / nursing
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Societies, Nursing