Focus: Infection Control

Auditing medical-device reprocessing key
Adherence to sterilization and disinfection best practices ensures patient safety
Auditing medical-device reprocessing is crucial because adherence to sterilization and disinfection best practices ensures patient safety, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.
In May 2014, the Joint Commission issued a Quick Safety Advisory stating that breaches in equipment sterilization and high-level disinfection processes can result in outbreaks of HIV, and hepatitis B and C, as well as the transmission of bacterial infecting agents, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coil, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), salmonella, and Clostridium sordellii, the article said.
Some of the Joint Commission Advisory recommendations include:
• Making sure staff are competent and trained in sterilization or high-level disinfection of equipment
• Making manufacturer’s instructions for use available to staff and ensure that the instructions are followed
May 12, 2017
Topic Area: Infection Control
Recent Posts
Wesley Rehabilitation Center Specializes in Patients from Design to Care
Barge knew that patients were at the core of the design process.
Casa Colina Center for Disorders of Consciousness Officially Opens
New program addresses critical need for patients with severe brain injuries.
Legionella Detected at Michigan Health Facility
Case follows a similar finding of Legionnaires’ disease in a former patient.
Crystal Spring Tower Opens at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital
The new cardiovascular institute improves access and care across the region.
Hospital Evacuation Highlights Importance of Emergency Preparedness
Berger Hospital was evacuated after smoke was discovered in the basement.