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How to Assess Risk of Disease Transmission to Patients When There Is a Failure to Follow Recommended Disinfection and Sterilization Guidelines

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2015

William A. Rutala  and
David J. Weber
William A. Rutala
Affiliation:
Department of Hospital Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Health Care System, and the Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
David J. Weber
Affiliation:
Department of Hospital Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Health Care System, and the Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
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Abstract

Background.

Disinfection and sterilization are critical components of infection control. Unfortunately, breaches of disinfection and sterilization guidelines are not uncommon.

Objective.

To describe a method for evaluating a potential breach of guidelines for high-level disinfection and sterilization of medical devices.

Methods.

The appropriate scientific literature was reviewed to determine the frequency of failures of compliance. A risk assessment model was constructed.

Results.

A 14-step protocol was constructed to aid infection control professionals in the evaluation of potential disinfection and sterilization failures. In addition, a model is presented for aiding in determining how patients should be notified of the potential adverse event. Sample statements and letters are provided for communicating with the public and individual patients.

Conclusion.

Use of a protocol can guide an institution in managing potential disinfection and sterilization failures.

Type
Original Articles
Information
Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology , Volume 28 , Issue 2 , February 2007 , pp. 146 - 155
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America 2007

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