Mrs Kate Ryan1, Dr Sally Havers1, Professor Lindsay Grayson1
1Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia
Background: Effective and safe reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) is essential to protect patients and staff from risks associated with contamination of RMDs. High-level disinfection (HLD) is the minimum standard for reprocessing RMD used for semi-critical activities, with automated systems being preferred over manual processes. A quality activity was undertaken to implement the Antigermix HLD system for ultrasound probes, TOE probes and nasoendoscopes.
Method: An analysis of current reprocessing activities, supporting policy documents and evidence-based requirements was conducted to determine the baseline, which informed the requirements for implementation. In parallel, a cross-sectional survey of staff in ICU was undertaken to identify staff knowledge, beliefs and attitudes about ultrasound probe reprocessing requirements and practices.
Results: There was a mixed approach to reprocessing prior to the implementation of Antigermix, ranging from no reprocessing, to an automated system for HLD. Implementation required the creation of: satellite reprocessing rooms; formal documentation including procedures for ultrasound and TOE probe reprocessing, nasoendoscope reprocessing, Antigermix training, competency assessment, troubleshooting guides, a post-implementation review process; and an online training module for Antigermix use. Pre-implementation staff believed reprocessing was key to safe ultrasound use, but didn’t know what was required, or how to do it. Post-implementation staff felt confident that there was a standardised process, with dedicated staff, and all staff were now aware of the requirements for reprocessing.
Conclusion: A structured Antigermix implementation, in conjunction with clear policy and training documents, has created a process that allows for a smooth transition to a new reprocessing method.
Biography: Kate Ryan began her health career as a physiotherapist. From experiences as an acute cardiothoracic physio, an interest in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) was sparked, and from here Kate took up a role within the founding team of Hand Hygiene Australia in 2008. IPC became Kate’s passion, completing the Foundations course in 2018, a credentialed member of ACIPC in 2019, then completing the Infection Control Grad Certificate at Griffith University in 2022.
Kate is still involved with HHA to this day, however she now has a role within Austin Health as a part of the Reusable Medical Device program.