How often should endoscopes be checked for maintenance? Are there generally blatant signs when a scope is not working properly and should be checked?
Scopes should be leak tested after every procedure and before disinfection. The most effective leak test is to submerse the entire scope and follow orignial equipment manufacturer (OEM) instructions. If a leak is detected, the scope needs to be sent in for repair immediately. Scopes should be checked for maintenance on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis depending on the number of scopes used and procedures performed. There are blatant signs that a scope should be checked. One of the most common is when a video scope starts taking pictures by itself, or when it will not take pictures. Usually this is a sign of fluid invasion. The fluid has entered the video switch block controls and the scope needs to be sent in for repair immediately. If a picture is cloudy on a video scope, users should look for a buildup of gluteraldehyde on the distal lens. If there is a buildup or debris on the lens, clean the lens with a rubbing alcohol wipe. If there is no buildup or debris on the lens, the vi
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