Utilizing a failure mode and effects analysis to prevent errors in endoscope reprocessing

Authors

Alex K. Wells, Henry Ford HealthFollow
Amanda Renard, Henry Ford HealthFollow
Rupinder Mahal, Henry Ford HealthFollow
Sarah Prascius, Henry Ford HealthFollow
Tricia Stein, Henry Ford HealthFollow

Recommended Citation

Wells A, Renard A, Mahal R, Prascius S, and Stein T. Utilizing a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis to Prevent Errors in Endoscope Reprocessing. Am J Infect Control 2025;54(2):222-226.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2026

Publication Title

American journal of infection control

Keywords

Humans, Endoscopes, Disinfection, Cross Infection, Infection Control, Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis, Equipment Reuse, Equipment Contamination

Abstract

Following two potential endoscope-related patient exposures, a multidisciplinary team, led by Infection Prevention, conducted a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis to identify and address high-risk steps in endoscope reprocessing. Four key vulnerabilities were identified, leading to targeted actions with equipment, competencies, and process verification. Since implementation, no exposures have occurred, underscoring the value of Failure Mode and Effects Analysis in Infection Prevention.

Medical Subject Headings

Humans; Endoscopes; Disinfection; Cross Infection; Infection Control; Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis; Equipment Reuse; Equipment Contamination

PubMed ID

41202882

ePublication

ePub ahead of print

Volume

54

Issue

2

First Page

222

Last Page

226