Effect of Proper Irrigation and Sterilization of used Equipment in Endoscopic Operations on Awareness and Performance of Operation Room

This study aimed to investigate the influence of training for proper irrigation and sterilization of used equipment in endoscopic operations, on knowledge and performance of operating room (OR) personnel.

This interventional study was conducted on 61 OR personnel, in 2016. Before the intervention, all the participants completed a researcher-made questionnaire regarding their awareness of proper irrigation and sterilization of endoscopy equipment. In addition, their performance was assessed through a researcher-made checklist, before the intervention. Proper irrigation and sterilization of endoscopy equipment was instructed to the participants through three lectures (45 minutes each)in one week. The participants were asked to complete the questionnaire again, and then the observer evaluated their performance for the second time. Descriptive statistics was used for analyzing data along with Interferential statistics (paired t-test, and McNemar's non-parametric test) for determining significance. SPSS software (version 20.0) was used for data analysis.

Mean±SD scores of knowledge of personnel were 11.03±3.14 before the intervention and 16.88±1.65 two weeks after intervention. Mean±SD scores of performance were 8.40±1.38 and 12.16±0.91 before and two weeks after intervention, respectively. Paired t-test showed statistically significant difference for both mean scores of knowledge and performance before and after interventions (P<0.001).

Training improves knowledge and performance of operating room staff regarding proper irrigation and sterilization of used endoscopic equipment. Based on the findings of this study, holding regular instructional courses for operating room personnel is crucial to keep their information up-todate.