How long should endoscopes typically be immersed in a high-level disinfectant for proper disinfection?

The appropriate immersion time for endoscopes in a high-level disinfectant to ensure effective disinfection is typically 12 to 30 minutes. This duration is based on the manufacturer's instructions for the specific disinfectant being used and is designed to ensure that all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, are effectively eliminated from the surface of the endoscopes.

Using the correct time frame is crucial. If the immersion time is too short, there may not be enough contact time for the disinfectant to work effectively, potentially leading to inadequate disinfection and increased risk of infection transmission. On the other hand, immersion for too long may not provide any additional benefits and can potentially damage the endoscope materials or lead to other issues.

It's important to always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for both the endoscope and the disinfectant, as recommendations can vary based on the type of disinfectant, the manufacturer, and the specific endoscope being processed. This is why the range of 12 to 30 minutes is considered standard practice for ensuring that high-level disinfection is achieved.