What is typically found as a residue on scopes after disinfection?

What is typically found as a residue on scopes after disinfection?

• A. Water stains
• B. Detergent film
• C. Dust particles
• D. Glove powder

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is that detergent film is typically found as a residue on scopes after disinfection. During the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes, detergents are used to clean the scopes before they undergo disinfection. If a thorough rinse is not performed after cleaning, remnants of detergent can be left on the surface of the scope. This residue can interfere with the effectiveness of subsequent disinfection and may lead to adverse reactions if in contact with patients. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all detergent is properly rinsed off during the reprocessing cycle to prevent this film from remaining. Water stains are usually not a primary concern as they are typically indicative of evaporated water rather than a chemical residue. Dust particles may settle on the scopes in the reprocessing environment but are not a result of the disinfection process itself. Glove powder, while potentially present in healthcare settings, is not specifically associated with the reprocessing of endoscopes and is less relevant as a residue resulting from disinfection procedures.

The correct answer is that detergent film is typically found as a residue on scopes after disinfection. During the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes, detergents are used to clean the scopes before they undergo disinfection. If a thorough rinse is not performed after cleaning, remnants of detergent can be left on the surface of the scope. This residue can interfere with the effectiveness of subsequent disinfection and may lead to adverse reactions if in contact with patients. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all detergent is properly rinsed off during the reprocessing cycle to prevent this film from remaining.

Water stains are usually not a primary concern as they are typically indicative of evaporated water rather than a chemical residue. Dust particles may settle on the scopes in the reprocessing environment but are not a result of the disinfection process itself. Glove powder, while potentially present in healthcare settings, is not specifically associated with the reprocessing of endoscopes and is less relevant as a residue resulting from disinfection procedures.