Tranport of reusable medical devices (RMD) takes place:
- After point of use reprocessing. Contaminated RMD’s or are transferred to the sterilization department or to a reprocessing room for disinfection (see flexible endoscopes). RMD’s are enclosed in a container. Operators in charge of transfer are informed of risks entailed and adequately trained. Precautions are taken to avoid accidental contamination of operators or RMD damages.s
RMD’s potentially contaminated by prions are separated from other instruments, clearly identified and transferred according to local regulation.
- After sterilization or disinfection. sterile or disinfected items are transported to the storage area, or to the point of use. Transfer occurs in controlled conditions. Packaging system of sterile items is designed after risk analysis of transport conditions. Precautions are taken to avoid breach of or damages to the packaging. Damages to packaging is reported systematically. See also flexible endoscopes.
Contaminated transport containers: RMD’s are visibly differentiated from sterile or disinfected items. Whatever the type of transport, contaminated items do not use the same transport pathway as sterile or disinfected items.
Recommandations applicable to the different type of transports are as follows
On-site transport by hand, trolley or transport cart
- Contaminated device containers follow designated routes to avoid high-traffic and patient care areas.
- Containers used to transport contaminated items by hand are carried parallel to the floor to avoid spills and RMD shifting.
- Transport carts and tables are large enough for all packages to be placed flat without extending beyond the edge of the cart shelf or table surface.
- Contaminated items are never placed on the same cart or trolley as sterile or disinfected items.
- When trolleys are used alternately to transport contaminated and decontaminated items, they are reprocessed between each use according to trolley manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU).
- Carts are designed and made of material that allow easy, preferably automated cleaning. If trolleys leave an air controlled area, they are to be closed and under supervision.
- Reusable covers for carts or other transport vehicles are cleaned after each use and have a sealable opening.
Off-site transport
- Vehicles are preferably dedicated to RMD transport.
- If the vehicle is being used to transport both contaminated and sterilised devices, these devices are placed in separate, secure areas of the vehicle.
- The design and materials used in the construction of all transport vehicles (motorized or manual) allow appropriate cleaning and disinfection.
- The storage compartment is completely enclosed.
- Vehicles are customized for ease of loading and unloading.
- Carts are secured within the vehicle to prevent damage or contamination from spills.
- Vehicles that are loaded and ready for transport are not left unattended in unsecured areas.
- Personal protection equipment and biohazardous spill kits are available in transportation vehicles.
- Local regulation may apply for off-site transportation of hazardous material and infectious substances
On site automated cart distribution systems and pneumatic systems :
- By design, contaminated routes and sterile routes are different.
- Operation is supervised by authorized staff.
- Equipment is cleaned and disinfected according to manufacturer’s IFU’s.
On site transport in lifts :
- Lifts are dedicated to either contaminated RMD or sterile and disinfected RMD.
- Lifts are large enough to allow the containers to be positioned securely.
- Lifts are designed for easy cleaning and cleaned on a routine basis, according to the organization’s policy.
- Dedicated, clean lifts should be located in areas designated as “clean.”
- Sterile packages are contained in a closed bin, a closed case cart, or a plastic bag.