Regional reprocessing policy updates

On December 19, 2013, an update was approved by the Executive to the Regional Reprocessing Policy; Reprocessing Critical and Semi-critical Medical Devices. This policy effects all staff involved in the reprocessing cycle:

The main changes in the update are the use of the new VCH policy format, more informative, and user friendly content, and the inclusion of a Recall Procedure and documentation for staff to follow in the event of a reprocessing failure.

A recall is initiated to retrieve affected devices and prevent their use in patient care, if there is some indication they have not been completely sterilized.

This policy is in effect across VCH including contracted providers. Although essentially a refresh of the previous policy, programs are encouraged to familiarize themselves with its content.

Sites involved in the periodic audits will be contacted in February to arrange site visits, which will begin April 2014.

Documents and references can be found on the RPIP website ; Policy ; Recall Procedure

Questions can be sent to: reprocessing@vch.ca