Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections From Reprocessed Multiple-Use Medical DevicesAppropriate Cleaning, Disinfection, and Sterilization

摘要

Clinical engineers can help prevent hospital-acquired infections by understanding the principles of proper cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization and the importance of following the manufacturer's instructions on how to adequately reprocess the medical devices used in their facilities. Devices should be inspected for damage because that damage may preclude the removal of microorganisms and proper reprocessing. If such damage is noted on a device, the device should be taken out of service. If devices are refurbished by third parties, it is important to inspect the devices for any variations from the original manufacturer's materials or design before use because sterilization or disinfection may become compromised because of such device alterations. By adhering to these practices, the clinical engineer becomes a valuable part of the infection control team.