Infection prevention and patient safety are top priorities in modern healthcare. With the latest ANSI/AAMI ST91:2021 guidelines setting new standards for endoscope reprocessing, hospitals and healthcare facilities must adapt to ensure compliance and enhance infection control. iRIScope, Mobile Aspects’ advanced endoscope management solution, is designed to help healthcare organizations seamlessly meet these stringent requirements while improving operational efficiency.
Understanding ST91 and Its Impact on Endoscope Reprocessing
ST91:2021 provides comprehensive guidance on the proper handling, cleaning, storage, and documentation of flexible and semi-rigid endoscopes. These guidelines aim to reduce the risk of infections and ensure high standards of patient care. Key aspects of ST91 include:
Real-time monitoring and documentation of scope reprocessing steps
Enhanced storage conditions to prevent microbial growth
Personnel training and competency assessments
Clear traceability to connect endoscope usage with patient records
Adhering to these guidelines is critical for infection prevention, reducing hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), and improving regulatory compliance.
How iRIScope Helps Meet ST91 Standards
iRIScope is designed to address the challenges of endoscope management and compliance with ST91. Here’s how:
1. Automated Tracking and Documentation
With RFID-enabled technology, iRIScope ensures every step of the endoscope lifecycle is accurately tracked and documented, reducing the risk of human error. This includes logging cleaning cycles, storage times, and patient usage data to maintain a clear chain of custody.
2. Real-Time Alerts and Compliance Assurance
iRIScope notifies staff when an endoscope has exceeded its safe storage period, preventing the use of potentially contaminated scopes. This proactive approach aligns with ST91’s emphasis on storage best practices.
3. Optimized Storage with HEPA Filtration
ST91 recommends specific storage conditions for endoscopes to minimize contamination risks. iRIScope cabinets utilize HEPA-filtered drying and secure access control, ensuring that scopes remain sterile and ready for use.
4. Improved Workflow and Staff Efficiency
By automating scope tracking and reducing the reliance on manual logging, iRIScope allows staff to focus more on patient care rather than administrative tasks. This increases overall efficiency and reduces the burden of compliance management.
5. Comprehensive Reporting for Audits and Compliance
iRIScope provides detailed analytics and reports, allowing hospitals to quickly demonstrate compliance during audits. This ensures that facilities meet Joint Commission, AAMI, and other regulatory standards with ease.
The Future of Endoscope Reprocessing
As regulatory bodies continue to emphasize patient safety and infection control, solutions like iRIScope are becoming essential in modern healthcare environments. By automating compliance with ST91 and providing real-time tracking, iRIScope helps hospitals stay ahead of evolving regulations while maintaining the highest standards of care.
To learn more about how iRIScope can help your facility comply with ST91 and enhance patient safety, contact Mobile Aspects today!