Pentax ECY-1575K [12/80] 2 inspection of endoscope

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2-2. Inspection of Endoscope

CAUTION:

If the endoscope is intended to be used clinically after testing of individual endoscope

functions without further reprocessing, the following precaution should be exercised.

Use sterile or bacterial free water during individual endoscope function tests to

avoid recontamination of the previously reprocessed instrument by waterborne

microorganisms. Tap water, especially that which may be left idle and uncovered for

a prolonged period of time, should not be used during any inspection/testing of the

endoscope.

Before reprocessing and/or immersion in any uids, PENTAX endoscopes should

be tested for the loss of integrity in their watertight construction by using PENTAX

brand leak testers. For specic details on PENTAX recommended leak detection

procedures, please refer to the instructions supplied with PENTAX leak testers.

CAUTION:

Various types of endoscope leak testers exist including manual, electro-mechanical

and “automated” versions, some of which are stand alone units and others which may

be integrated into Automated Endoscope Reprocessors (AERs)/Washers-Disinfectors

(WDs). It must be recognized that PENTAX does not evaluate non-PENTAX leak

testersystemstosatisfytheirspecicproductclaims,fortheireffectivenessto

accurately detect leaks, and/or for their compatibility with PENTAX endoscopes.

Insufcientpressuresmayreducethelikelihoodforaccurateleakdetection,especially

iftheendoscope'sdistalbendingsectionisnotexedduringtesting.Excessive

pressures may adversely affect the endoscope, especially if pressurization occurs

during automated reprocessing at elevated temperatures. PENTAX accepts no

responsibility for use of non-PENTAX leak testers.

Users should check with the leak tester manufacturer and confirm their specific

product claims, including compatibility with PENTAX endoscopes at various

temperaturesandtheirabilitytodetectleakswith/withoutuidimmersionandwith/

withoutexingoftheendoscope'sdistalbendingsection.

1) Inspection of the Insertion Tube

a) Check the entire surface of the insertion tube for abnormal conditions such as

dents, crush marks, wrinkles, bumps, buckles, excessive bending, protrusions,

peeling of outer sheath, cuts/holes or other irregularities. Any crush or

indentation of the flexible shaft of the endoscopes can cause damage to the

internal mechanisms of the endoscopes.

b) Similarly, check the condition of the umbilical cable for outward signs of damage

such as buckling, crush marks, etc.