GLUTARALDEHYDE CONCENTRATION IN THE STERILIZATION OF ENDOSCOPES

Controversy over appropriate disinfection of endoscopes continues with the most commonly utilized solution in Australian hospitals, despite concern over its efficacy, being 1% glutaraldehyde (AIDAL). Review of in-use concentrations oi glutaraldehyde at Princess Alexandra Hospital has documented a significant dilutional effect in 1% glutaraldehyde b y gastrointestinal endoscopes. Each hospital should determine the mini mum in-use concentration acceptable for any given disinfecting solutio n and any given range of endoscopes. Once this level is reached, a sol ution change should routinely occur. Such decisions can only be made b y regularly monitoring in-use concentrations of disinfectants.