The Joint Commission issues Quick Safety on instrument reprocessing

Editor's Note

The Joint Commission on February 14 issued a new Quick Safety on “Ensuring critical instruments and devises are appropriate for reuse.”

The Quick Safety highlights reprocessing guidance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as special considerations for single use devices reprocessed by third parties that have been approved by the FDA.

Among the recommended safety actions for reprocessing reusable devices:

• Standardizing device inspection at each step of reprocessing and removing any instrument not appropriate for use.
• Integrating an infection preventionist's review of devices during the purchasing process.
• Having manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU) readily available and reviewing them periodically.
• Educating and training of staff responsible for reprocessing.
• Maintaining and refurbishing instruments to keep them in optimal condition and determining when their useful life has been met. Some IFUs contain the maximum number of reprocessing cycles validated for a particular item.