Presentation Title: Scoping the future: Infection Prevention and Control in the Next Era of Flexible Endoscope Reprocessing
Venue: IPAC BC Chapter Education Day
Date: November 3, 2025
Presenters: Steven Chan (Providence Health) and Noorsallah Esmail (PICNet)
Abstract:
Did you know that flexible endoscopes are among the most complex medical devices to reprocess—and one of the most frequently linked to outbreaks of healthcare-associated infections? As the demand for endoscopic procedures grows, so does the urgency to ensure safe and effective reprocessing. PICNet is in the final stages of developing infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines for the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes.
This presentation explores:
- The infection risks posed by flexible endoscopes and why current practices may fall short
- The rigorous evidence review process that shaped the new guidelines
- The collaborative work of the Reprocessing Guidelines Task Group—bringing together experts in medical device reprocessing, IPC, workplace health and safety, the Ministry of Health, and nursing
- Key recommendations IPC professional should know to support safer reprocessing practices in their facilities
Check out the presentation here.