The development of modern medicine has led to great strides in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. However, alongside these developments, a danger that cannot be ignored is quietly growing. Although endoscopy is considered a revolutionary method in the field of health, inadequate cleaning of these devices has become a serious problem threatening millions of people. Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and other infectious diseases can spread through inadequately disinfected endoscopy devices, and this situation is one of the biggest nightmares of the healthcare system.
Endoscopy: Can it Save Lives and Pose Dangers?
Endoscopy is a procedure that allows the internal organs to be examined by direct visualisation. This method is extremely important for the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. However, the complex nature of endoscopy devices makes it difficult to adequately clean them. Even the slightest negligence in cleaning can cause microbial biofilms to accumulate on the surfaces of the device. These biofilms can lead to the persistence of infections, resulting in the spread of fatal infectious diseases among patients.
Mistakes in Endoscopy Hygiene
Cleaning and disinfection of endoscopy devices is a process that must be carried out meticulously. However, mistakes made in this process can lead to serious health problems. The most common problems encountered in endoscopy hygiene include the following:
- Insufficient Staff: Lack of sufficient number of personnel for cleaning endoscopy devices may cause the devices not to be cleaned properly.
- Lack of Training: Lack of adequate knowledge and training in cleaning endoscopy devices may lead to errors in cleaning procedures.
- Time Constraints: Intense work tempo may cause health workers not to allocate enough time for cleaning operations.
- Complex Construction of Devices: The complex design of endoscopy devices complicates cleaning procedures and increases the possibility of error.
Ways to Minimise Infection Risks
Keeping endoscopy devices hygienic is vital to minimise the risk of infection. For this purpose, high-tech products such as Endoscope Washing and Disinfection Systems, Endoscope Cleaners and Disinfectants, Endoscope Storage and Drying Systems and Ergonomic Trolleys enable effective cleaning of endoscopy devices.
These solutions offered by Detro Healthcare ensure hygienic storage of endoscopy devices both before and after use. This maximises the safety of patients and healthcare professionals.
Serious Consequences: Symptoms and Treatment of Endoscopy Infections
Infections that occur after endoscopy can have different symptoms, usually depending on the infected organ. Common symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, weakness and jaundice. Left untreated, these infections can lead to serious health problems such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
It is of great importance that such infections are diagnosed early and controlled with appropriate treatment methods. However, the most effective solution is to ensure that infections do not occur at all, which is only possible with meticulous cleaning and disinfection.
Conclusion: Raising Hygiene Standards in the Health Sector
Endoscopy is one of the most valuable diagnostic and therapeutic methods offered by modern medicine. However, the safe application of this method depends on the hygienic cleaning of the devices. At Detrox, we contribute to the healthcare system by offering the highest standards in the hygiene of endoscopy devices. The products we have developed to ensure the safety of healthcare staff and patients guarantee the correct and safe use of endoscopy devices.
Raising hygiene standards in the healthcare sector minimises the risk of infection and improves the quality of healthcare services. When proper attention is paid to the hygiene of endoscopy devices, these vital tools continue to save patients’ lives and move away from the risk of becoming a ‘silent killer’.
