Page 18 - The Care and Handling of Flexible Scopes v3

Care of Flexible Endoscopes

otho-Phthalaldehyde (OPA) or glutaradehyde. Check the following before proceeding with
chemical processing:

1. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended chemicals and exposure
times to achieve either HLD or sterilisation.
2. Consult the Spaulding classification system before processing an endoscope to
ensure the chosen method aligns with the infection risk level.
3. Review the chemical’s label for handling, exposure time, usage, and warnings before
proceeding. HLD chemicals should be used in a hooded area to evacuate any fumes
from the product.

Always check the endoscope manufacturer’s instructions before using a disinfectant for
HLD or immediate-use sterilisation.

14. Rigid and Flexible Endoscope Support Equipment

There are several pieces of support equipment that are essential for the performance of
rigid and flexible endoscopes, which may include:

• Light Source. Equipment that produces the light for the scope.
• Fibre optic Light Cable. Composed of thousands of glass fibres that are coated
with a layer of glass to create a bundle.
• Camera and Monitors. A camera attached to the eyepiece that can transmit the
image onto a monitor that allows the surgeon, as well as the surgical team, to
view the body structures without having to look directly into the eyepiece of the
endoscope.
• Video Printer, CD Burner, Memory Stick. Devices that allow the surgeon to
videotape, take still pictures or store images for future use, or to add as
documentation to the permanent medical record.
• Fluid Pump or Insufflator. Used to distend the organ or body space for better
visualisation.
• Operative Instrumentation. Variety of instruments that can aid in surgical
procedures (scissors, graspers, electrosurgery desiccators, biopsy forceps,
retractors).
• Cannula/Trocar Sets. Used to create a passage from the outside of the body into
a cavity or organ.

Page | 18 Avensys UK Ltd