PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview, Wash., reported an infection control breach that potentially exposed 260 patients, according to an article on The Daily News website.
The sterilization potentially exposed patients to hepatitis and HIV.
The Peace Health incident is one of four or five “Category B” breaches typically reported in the state annually.
The potential exposure was discovered after an internal review of infection-control practices revealed that a mechanical scrubbing step in the sterilization process might have been skipped.
A 'Superbug' Is on the Rise in Hospitals
The Next Generation of Security Tech in Healthcare Facilities
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of St. Petersburg Opens
Why More Facilities are Adding Gender Neutral Restrooms
Massachusetts Hospital Cyberattack Reflects Growing Vulnerability in Healthcare Systems