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Debate continues regarding the optimal method for duodenoscope decontamination to prevent duodenoscope-related infections. In a recent study, researchers evaluated the adequacy of sterilization resulting from their center's implementation of high-level disinfection recommendations from a leading duodenoscope manufacturer.
One hundred and forty duodenoscope cycles of cleaning, culturing, and quarantining were examined. After high-level disinfection, each duodenoscope was cultured (two specimens taken) and quarantined pending culture results. If either of the first set of culture specimens tested positive, the duodenoscope was cleaned, recultured, and quarantined again. This process was repeated in a third cycle.
Of 234 initial culture specimen…