Resources on Best Practices in Flexible Endoscope Reprocessing

Published on:

June 5, 2025

Last updated on:

June 19, 2025

• Expert Q&A

Question:

What resources can I use to ensure flexible endoscope reprocessing is performed correctly at my facility?

Answer:

If you have concerns about the reprocessing of a specific endoscope model or the use of a certain product, the best place to start is understanding the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU). The reprocessing unit should have up-to-date versions of all applicable IFUs available, but it may be necessary to track down a few missing ones. It should be noted that endoscopes, accessories, and reprocessing products (brushes, detergents, automated endoscope reprocessors, etc.) all have IFUs, so keep this in mind as you are reviewing parts of the process.

If you have broader questions about the overall lifecycle of flexible endoscope reprocessing, it may be helpful to review some of the professional society guidelines and national standards that exist pertaining to this topic. These documents vary in size and detail but are intended to provide standard guidance on each part of the reprocessing lifecycle. They also tend to include supplemental recommendations (which can become requirements upon adoption of their document) related to quality assurance within flexible endoscope reprocessing.