What issue can occur with OPA in a flexible endoscope?

What issue can occur with OPA in a flexible endoscope?

• A. It can damage the scope's lens
• B. It can stain the patient's skin
• C. It can cause corrosion of internal parts
• D. It can reduce the effectiveness of sterilization

Answer: (B)

In the context of the use of ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes, the focus is primarily on the chemical's interaction with the endoscope itself and its components. OPA is a common high-level disinfectant used for endoscopes, and while it is effective in terms of disinfection, it can potentially lead to a few issues if not used correctly. The correct concern involving OPA relates to item C, which states that it can cause corrosion of internal parts. OPA has been shown to have corrosive effects on certain materials used in endoscope manufacturing. If OPA is mismanaged, such as not being rinsed off properly or prolonged exposure without adequate rinsing, it can lead to the degradation of internal parts, including delicate components and instruments within the endoscope. This can compromise the integrity and function of the flexible scope over time. In contrast, the concern regarding staining a patient's skin isn’t typically relevant to OPA’s role, as OPA is primarily handled and used in the reprocessing environment and not directly applied to patients during procedures. Thus, while it is important to consider the handling and application of OPA carefully, the predominant risk associated with OPA in flexible end

In the context of the use of ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes, the focus is primarily on the chemical's interaction with the endoscope itself and its components. OPA is a common high-level disinfectant used for endoscopes, and while it is effective in terms of disinfection, it can potentially lead to a few issues if not used correctly.

The correct concern involving OPA relates to item C, which states that it can cause corrosion of internal parts. OPA has been shown to have corrosive effects on certain materials used in endoscope manufacturing. If OPA is mismanaged, such as not being rinsed off properly or prolonged exposure without adequate rinsing, it can lead to the degradation of internal parts, including delicate components and instruments within the endoscope. This can compromise the integrity and function of the flexible scope over time.

In contrast, the concern regarding staining a patient's skin isn’t typically relevant to OPA’s role, as OPA is primarily handled and used in the reprocessing environment and not directly applied to patients during procedures. Thus, while it is important to consider the handling and application of OPA carefully, the predominant risk associated with OPA in flexible end