Routine monitoring is necessary to ensure that the water quality is maintained and does not deteriorate over time .” cleaner does not provide a final rinse , the device manufacturer ’ s written IFU for manual rinsing of the device should be followed .
Routine monitoring is necessary to ensure that the water quality is maintained and does not deteriorate over time . If water quality is not monitored , the water treatment storage and distribution system could become heavily contaminated with metals , microorganisms or other contaminants and could contribute to corrosion , staining and increased microbial levels after processing . ST108 provides guidance on what requires monitoring , how often it should be performed and by whom ; the standard features a chart to outline those functions . Utility water in medical device processing should be monitored quarterly at each point-of-use location , such as a sink , by collecting a water sample in a specially designated collection cup that is then sent to a lab for analysis , with a daily visual inspection of the interior of processing equipment to check for residues , staining , scaling , and discoloration .
Critical water requires more frequent monitoring ; if not properly maintained , water treatments can result in heightened microbial levels , biofilm development and endotoxins . In addition , the making of critical water will affect the chemical attributes of water including the pH , conductivity , total alkalinity , and total hardness . As such , point-of-use critical water should be tested monthly for endotoxins and bacteria by submitting a water sample . Daily visual inspections should also be performed that include inspecting the interior of processing equipment to check for residue , staining , scaling and discoloration .
ST108 ’ s annexes A through I provide information to assist SP professionals and others with the understanding and implementation of the standard . The annexes include guidance on the application of the normative requirements , risk analysis , automated endoscope reprocessors , water used in cleaning and moist-heat process , typical presentation of water quality issues during medical device processing , and more . To purchase the standard , visit www . aami . org .
Susan Klacik , BS , CRCST , CIS , CHL , ACE , FCS , is a clinical educator for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association ( HSPA ).