Effective Endoscope Reprocessing: Best Practices & Quality Assurance
At the World Federation for Hospital Sterilization Sciences (WFHSS) congress held in Hong Kong (December 3–6, 2025), a dedicated 45-minute symposium addressed the pivotal role of effective endoscope reprocessing in enhancing patient safety and infection prevention. The session focused on current best practices and quality assurance strategies.
A central topic of the symposium was the use of Automated Endoscope Reprocessors (AERs) and their contribution to standardized and reliable reprocessing workflows. The speakers highlighted how AERs help minimize human error, ensure consistent disinfection processes, reduce chemical exposure, and support advanced monitoring, documentation, and traceability. These features were discussed as key enablers for improving compliance with international guidelines and strengthening overall reprocessing quality.
In addition, the symposium emphasized the importance of endoscope sampling and culturing. The audience gained an overview of the underlying principles, methodological approaches, and practical relevance of these measures. The discussion underscored how routine sampling and culturing support early detection of contamination, enhance transparency, and contribute significantly to infection prevention strategies.
Practical recommendations for implementing effective sampling and culturing protocols were shared, aiming to support healthcare facilities in optimizing their reprocessing outcomes.
Overall, the symposium provided valuable insights into evidence-based approaches for safe and effective endoscope reprocessing, highlighting the combined role of standardized processes and continuous quality monitoring in helping protect patients and healthcare professionals alike.
To explore more about the symposium, watch the recording. For additional details about the WFHSS 2025 congress, visit https://wfhss.com/or https://www.wfhss-congress.com/.
Recording of the Olympus symposium "Effective Endoscope Reprocessing: Best Practices & Quality Assurance" held during the WFHSS 2025.