CONTEXT: The endoscopic procedure safety depends on the use of an adequately reprocessed device which quality is related to each of its operational steps. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the reprocessing of endoscopes using glutaraldehyde in endoscopy services METHODS: Study was conducted by observing the reprocessing of 60 endoscopes from 20 medical practices of the municipality of Goiânia, GO, central area of Brazil. RESULTS: This study showed failure in all reprocessing steps. The pre-washing was performed in 24 (40.0%) of the endoscope. In the cleaning steps, was identify the improper use of enzymatic detergent, and in 27 (45.0%) cases, the brushing of internal channels was not performed. All 60 endoscopes were submitted to this disinfectant. However, for 33 (55.0%) of the cases the internal channels was not filled. The total immersion of endoscope in the glutaraldehyde was not performed in 39 (65.0%) cases. The recommended minimum total immersion time for exposure to 2% glutaraldehyde solution was followed only for 12 (20.0%) endoscopes. There was no filter for water treatment used in the rinse of most endoscopes 54 (90.0%) and to dry the internal channels only 6 (10.0%) of them used compressed air. Adequate storing conditions were identified. CONCLUSION: Considering the particularities of the endoscope and its reprocessing, it is imperative to establish protocols to ensure the quality of the disinfection and the prevention of cross-contamination.
Endoscopes, gastrointestinal; Disinfection; Equipment contamination; Glutaral
