SGNA Releases Two Infection Prevention Practice Documents for GI Professionals

The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA) announces the release of two new practice documents focused on infection prevention. The revised Standards of Infection Prevention in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2015) details the recommended steps for successful reprocessing; the new Standard of Infection Prevention in the Gastroenterology Setting (2015) includes specific considerations to maintain infection prevention and safety during GI procedures. SGNA publishes practice documents such as these in order to provide gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing professionals with critical, unbiased information based on evidence.

The revised Standards of Infection Prevention in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2015) introduces nine steps in the reprocessing cycle instead of the previous eight. "After closely examining and evaluating research, we [the SGNA Practice Committee] felt that presenting nine steps for reprocessing would give GI professionals more clarity," says LeaRae Herron-Rice, MSM BSN RN CGRN, SGNA Practice Committee board liaison. "The importance of reprocessing is undisputed, and this revision should assist with critical staff training to enhance patient safety."

Also incorporated in the revision are new details on storage (or hang time) that come from the systematic review of research by the SGNA Scholars. In partnership with the Joanna Briggs Institute and Texas Christian University, the SGNA Scholars are trained to identify knowledge gaps in gastroenterology evidence and perform a systematic review to meet these identified needs. To learn more about the findings from their research, view the video here.

The newly released Standard of Infection Prevention in the Gastroenterology Setting (2015) details safety considerations for both patient and staff. "Creating and reinforcing a culture of safety in the endoscopy suite is vital, and this new practice document is meant to support our community to achieve this goal," says Michelle Juan, MSN RN CGRN, SGNA Practice Committee member. "As the document states, 'ensuring infection prevention in the endoscopy setting requires a multi-factorial approach.' The SGNA Practice Committee and SGNA leadership feel strongly that a team approach is necessary for a high-quality, safe patient and staff experience."

As a leading voice for infection prevention and patient safety, SGNA remains committed to providing the community with critical information based on evidence to assist with quality care. In-depth webinars are scheduled to present and review the information detailed in the recently released practice documents and provide one contact hour for participants. Registration is now available for the following webinars:

• Tuesday, February 23, 2016; 6 p.m. CT: Standards of Infection Prevention in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2015)

• Tuesday, March 22, 2016; 6 p.m. CT: Standard of Infection Prevention in the Gastroenterology Setting (2015) webinar

The SGNA Infection Prevention Champions Program, which was introduced two years ago, presents facilities with an opportunity to systematically assess and analyze current infection prevention practices. The champion would collaborate with key individuals at their facility to develop an improvement plan, all with the support and guidance of SGNA. To date, Champions and facilities have identified areas for improving patient care, streamlined procedures that resulted in cost savings, and ensure all staff has the latest information and training available. Details about this exceptional program can be found online at: www.sgna.org/InfectionPrevention/.

Source: SGNA