Endoscope Reprocessing

The proper cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of Olympus equipment is equally as important as their proper use. Here, you will find pertinent information related to controlling or preventing infection using Olympus products. Additionally, we provide educational videos and safety information relating to reprocessing our endoscopes.

Our goal is to keep you educated and informed on how you can provide optimal infection control and prevention in your facility.

Cleaning: "The first and most important step in removing the microbial burden from an endoscope. Retained debris may inactivate or interfere with the capability of the chemical solution to effectively kill and/or inactivate microorganisms." — Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA)

Disinfection: "A process that results in the killing of all vegetative bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mycobacteria, but not necessarily all bacterial spores. The Spaulding Classification identifies HLD [high-level disinfection] as the standard for medical devices that touch mucous membranes, such as endoscopes." — Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)

Sterilization: "A process that results in the complete elimination or destruction or all forms of microbial life. The Spaulding Classification identifies sterilization as the standard for medical devices that enter the vascular system or sterile tissue, such as biopsy forceps." — Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)