Traditional vs Conventional Decontamination Methods with Cystoscopy

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB) were given an opportunity to introduce the Genesis Medical Vision Science scope and 7000 series Digital Processing Unit. The Urology Directorate were keen to use this equipment as it would support them in maintaining their flexi cystoscope service and address aspects such as annual flexi testing on the routine list and throughput of patients in Urology Theatre.

The Decontamination Manager having reviewed the Welsh Health Technical Memorandum 01-06 on ‘difficult to clean probes’, together with the Authorised Engineer’s (Decon) support and evidence of chemical decontamination efficacy, welcomed the product in assisting the Health Board in improving patient healthcare. It was deemed it would help focus care where it was needed.

This Project Supports Prudent Healthcare

Providing safe, high quality and meaningful care in a timely manner using evidence-based practice.

This approach to cystoscope use is evidence-based, whilst recognising the required standards for decontamination (WHTM 01-6).

The Decontamination Manager and Urology Directorate have worked together linking with NHS Shared Services Authorised Engineer (Decontamination) to examine the feasibility of introducing such a scope; recognising each other’s input and expertise and the clinical need.

Anticipated Benefits

• Patient safety: The decontamination method whilst being semi-automated uses evidence based data proving the removal and destruction of any microorganisms present. The innovative scope design allows for no or minimal organic matter contamination. Considering all standards, risks and scope design, the Decontamination Manager has designed a Decontamination Approach which ensures patient safety through a proven validated process.
• Patient experience: The cystoscope design together with this decontamination method can be used ‘at the bedside’ as well as in static clinics/theatres. This provides a flexible way of working, meeting the needs of patients who may not be able to attend existing cystoscopy clinics. It has the potential to go to the patient rather than the patient to limited choice venues.
• Patient outcomes: Recognising the clinical demand and the clientele group, any delay in a patient having a cystoscope for treatment or diagnosis can impact greatly on morbidity and potentially mortality; they include infection risk, clinical diagnosis delay, reduced quality of life and increased resource demand such as ongoing clinic, medicines and hospital admissions.
• Efficiency: Increasing patient flowthrough by using this more efficient scope will allow for prompt diagnosis and therefore treatment, improving patient experience by reducing delays and complaints, and allow for focus on those that need specialist Urology service; directing those who need further treatment. A key aspect of Prudent Healthcare.
• Motivation for the project: This is an opportunity to make a significant difference for the general public utilising NHS monies more effectively and following the Prudent Healthcare Principles.