New developments in processing semicritical items: Channeled endoscopes, probes, optical and nasal devices, and others.

BACKGROUND: Semicritical medical devices are defined as items that come into contact with mucous membranes or nonintact skin (eg, gastrointestinal [GI] endoscopes, endocavitary probes). Such medical devices require minimally high-level disinfection and preferably, sterilization (eg, GI endoscopes).

METHODS: The published literature was used to identify recommendations and advancements in disinfection and sterilization of semicritical items.

RESULTS: Each of these invasive procedures has an infection risk that varies by procedure type (eg, routine colonoscopy) and patient. Reusable endoscopes (eg, GI, bronchoscopes) have been associated with more outbreaks of infection than any other medical or surgical item in healthcare.

CONCLUSIONS: Strict adherence to current recommendations and manufacturer's instructions for use is required to prevent outbreaks associated with these devices.