SGNA Releases Statements on Reprocessing of Endoscopic Accessories, Valves, Water Bottles

The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA) has released a Statement on Reprocessing of Endoscopic Accessories and Valves. This resource will help GI/endoscopy professionals properly reprocess endoscopic accessories and valves, which is essential to safely and successfully treating patients.

In the document, SGNA outlines its support of the proper reprocessing of endoscopic accessories and valves. The position includes requiring sterilization of accessories classified as critical medical devices, and reprocessing reusable accessories, valves and tubings according to the manufacturers instructions.

SGNA also has released a Statement on Reprocessing of Water Bottles Used During Endoscopy. Limited data is available that supports a definitive guideline on the proper cleaning and reprocessing of water bottles used during endoscopy, and SGNA encourages more research on this topic. However, this new statement outlines SGNAs stance regarding safe water bottle reprocessing to help those in the GI/endoscopy field provide safe patient care.

SGNA supports the following elements in the document: The first element specifies how the water bottle should be cleaned, and the second is in regards to the water used during procedures.

To read the Statement on Reprocessing of Water Bottles Used During Endoscopy, CLICK HERE.

The documents were written and prepared by the SGNA Practice Committee, which develops practice-related strategies that assist in fulfilling SGNAs mission and goals. The committee also ensures that practice-related products and services are current and that new practice items are developed to meet the needs of members and the industry. Before they reach the public, SGNA practice guidelines undergo a rigorous board approval and copyediting process to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Source: Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc.

Also from the SGNA:

Standards of Infection Control in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2012)

Guideline for the Use of High-Level Disinfectants and Sterilants for Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes