Single-Use Vs Reusable Endoscopy Reprocessing: An Efficiency Survey of Nurses and Technicians

OBJECTIVES: Numerous studies have highlighted the potential time savings single-use endoscopes (SUEs) may afford facilities when compared to reusable endoscopes (REs) due to their ability to eliminate post-procedure cleaning. This time savings may not only allow for more procedures to be performed, but free up the resources and time of individuals responsible for cleaning both the procedure rooms and REs. The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the impact SUEs could have on the individuals responsible for procedure room turnover and RE reprocessing.

METHODS: Clinical training specialists across the United States distributed surveys to nurses, reprocessing technicians, and others involved in endoscope reprocessing. Data collection took place from September 2022 to February 2023. Proportions were calculated using each question’s applicable respondents.

RESULTS: 52 participants participated in the survey. 100% believed using SUEs instead of REs could save time and allow them to spend more time on imperative tasks, with 66% saving 4+ hrs/week and 17% saving 15+ hrs/week. When considering time savings, 70% believed they would be able to reallocate 4+ hrs/week and 13% believed they could reallocate 15+ hrs/week. Additionally, 11% of individuals felt that SUEs could reduce 6+ hrs/week of after-hours and/or weekend time. Finally, 89% of reprocessing technicians felt that eliminating the reprocessing of just one type of scope would reduce the pressure to keep up with the demands of cleaning/reprocessing other types of scopes and equipment.

CONCLUSIONS: SUEs may not only save employees time by eliminating endoscope reprocessing but allow them to spend time doing more imperative tasks and reduce job pressures. All respondents felt that utilizing only SUEs could save time and over 17% felt they could save 15+ hrs/week. If widely adopted, facilities may not only see a reduction in costs, but an increase in time savings, employee morale, and elimination of reprocessing related risks.