Question

Before it is manually cleaned, what must be done to a flexible endoscope?

a) Disinfected
b) Inspected for damage
c) Submerged in alcohol
d) Warmed to room temperature

Answer 1

Before manually cleaning, a flexible endoscope must be inspected for damage to ensure safety and integrity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before a flexible endoscope is manually cleaned, it must be inspected for damage. This inspection is crucial to ensure patient safety and the integrity of the endoscope. Any damage or malfunction could lead to improper cleaning, potential harm to patients, or a failure to carry out its diagnostic or therapeutic purpose effectively. While disinfecting, submerging in alcohol, and adjusting temperature are also part of the overall reprocessing cycle for endoscopes, the initial step before manual cleaning specifically involves a thorough visual and physical inspection.