6 Top Features to Look for in a Scope Cabinet

Are you confused about which scope cabinet features are the most important? 

This article discusses new infection prevention and control guidelines and guides you through the top six features to look for when purchasing a scope storage cabinet.  

Before we dive in, be aware that The Joint Commission has published new infection prevention (IP) and control (IC) requirements. Based on a hierarchy of regulations, the Commission indicates that when writing policies for high-level disinfection and sterilization, the manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFU) precede evidence-based guidelines (EBGs). 

We may see infection protection and infection control guidelines evolve further as research highlights the challenges of reprocessing endoscopes. Endoscopy units must periodically evaluate how well their policies align with current guidelines. 

1 – Ventilation

The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) considers ventilation the first consideration when purchasing endoscope storage cabinets. Current research agrees with AORN’s assessment. 

A systematic review published in Endoscopy International Open found that almost 20% of post-processed gastrointestinal endoscopes were contaminated. 

An American Journal of Infection Control research article points to retained fluid as the medium where microorganisms thrive after reprocessing, increasing the risk of infectious transmission to the next patient.   

The 2021 AAMI (Association for the Advancement Of Medical Instrumentation) ST91 guidelines may encourage reprocessors to perform a more thorough drying process. 

The AAMI Array reviewed the 2021 AAMI ST91 guidelines, stating that AAMI now recommends drying scope channels with forced instrument- or HEPA-filtered air for 10 minutes before storing scopes. 

Once the scopes are dry, there are three options for storage cabinets:

• Ventilated conventional storage cabinets without forced airflow
• Conventional storage cabinets with circulating filtered air
• Automated drying with forced, filtered air throughout the cabinet and through scope channels via connectors

The American Journal of Infection Control published a research article showing that automated drying cabinets that circulated filtered air throughout scope channels were more effective at drying endoscopes than conventional cabinets. In addition, researchers found a heavier microbial burden on scopes stored in conventional cabinets vs those stored in automated drying cabinets. 

2 – Easily Disinfected

Durable, easily cleaned cabinets last longer and help environmental service technicians keep high-risk surfaces free of pathogens. 

The AAMI 2021 ST91 standard for processing flexible and semi-rigid endoscopes recommends storage cabinets constructed of materials that can withstand frequent cleaning with hospital-grade cleaners and disinfectants, as reported in Infection Control Today.

In addition to recommending that reprocessed endoscopes are thoroughly dried and remain dry until use, the AORN recommends that ready-for-use scopes be stored in clean, enclosed cabinets to keep out dust, dirt, and other contaminants. 

3 – Vertical Storage 

Scopes should be stored vertically in conventional storage cabinets to allow residual moisture to drain out of the channels. However, because these cabinets use passive airflow, scopes must be thoroughly dry before storage. These cabinets should also include a removable drip pan.    

Vertical storage is preferred when using a drying cabinet, but horizontal storage may be adequate if using forced-air drying adapters. 

4 – Adequate Size and Capacity

Adequate cabinet size and capacity ensure that scopes hang free, as recommended by the 2018 SGNA guidelines. 

Before purchasing scope cabinets, make sure that the cabinets can accommodate the type and number of scopes used by the facility. The manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFU) help determine the correct size cabinet.  

5 – Ability to Track Scopes

Reduce documentation errors and keep consistent records by choosing a scope drying and tracking cabinet that displays real-time data and tracks multiple variables over time.

If the cabinet includes an on-board display, users can determine the status of each endoscope. Some cabinets feature secure WiFi-enabled tracking systems and the ability to generate reports. Remote monitoring helps managers track scopes and provides vital information during an infectious disease outbreak. 

6 – Security and Safety Features

With reusable endoscopes costing between $20,000 and $120,000 each, investing in locking scope storage cabinets can be a good business decision.  

Automatic locking systems on scope cabinets allow staff access via a badge swipe and lock automatically when the door is closed. 

Consider cabinets with a padded back wall to protect delicate scope optics. Another helpful feature is a cord and tube management system to keep endoscope tubes from touching. 

It is important to stay on top of the research that drives changes in medical technology and IP and IC guidelines. Planning for the future can save healthcare dollars. 

Consider choosing scope storage cabinets that:

• already have the features needed to meet future industry guidelines, OR
• can be retrofitted as recommendations change.

Regardless of the scope cabinets and features that you choose, you can be assured that InnerSpace is in the forefront when it comes to keeping up with the latest infection prevention and control guidelines for endoscope storage and cleanliness. Our constant research is used to add state-of-the-industry features to our products. Contact an InnerSpace representative today to discuss the scope storage solution that’s right for you.