Final answer:
An endoscope used in endoscopy cannot be autoclaved due to the high heat and steam pressure and must be disinfected using chemical agents after each procedure to ensure safety and avoid damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The endoscope used in endoscopy cannot withstand the high temperatures and steam pressure of autoclaves and must be disinfected after each procedure. Autoclaves operate by applying moist-heat sterilization at temperatures typically at 121 °C or 132 °C, which is sufficient to kill endospores but can damage heat-sensitive equipment like endoscopes. Unlike metal instruments that can be wrapped and sterilized, endoscopes are made with sensitive components that can be harmed by the extreme conditions inside an autoclave.
Therefore, these instruments need alternative disinfection methods to ensure they are safe for use. Disinfection may involve the use of chemical agents that control and reduce the number of harmful microorganisms to a safe level without causing the damage that autoclaving would. It is crucial for patient safety to properly disinfect endoscopes between uses to prevent cross-contamination and infection.