Cleaning and Disinfection

TEE probe cleaning and disinfection

  • Immediately after extracting the TEExp from the patient, wipe the cable, controller, endoscopic shaft, and scan head of the transducer with a cloth or wipe moistened with water. Be sure to remove all visible biological material. Do not wipe the connector.
  • At the cleaning station, prepare the cleaner for use:
  1. Check the expiration date on the bottle to ensure that the cleaner has not expired.
  2. Check that the cleaner has the concentration recommended by the manufacturer (for example, use a chemical strip test).
  3. Check that the temperature of the cleaner is within the manufacturer’s recommended limits.
  • Secure the control handle so it cannot fall into the cleaning solution, and immerse the endoscopic shaft and scan head in a plastic container filled with enzymatic cleaning solution up to the 90 cm mark.
  • Soak according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  1. Do not soak the transducer longer than recommended by the chemical manufacturer.
  2. Do not immerse the transducer cable, connector, or controller in any fluid.
  • While the endoscope is soaking:
  1. Scrub the endoscopic shaft for at least three minutes using a soft brush or single-use endoscopic sponge moistened with enzymatic cleaner.
  2. Clean the control handle and cord by wiping with a clean, non-linting cloth or single-use endoscopic sponge moistened with the approved cleaner. To remove any residual cleaner, wipe both components again with a clean, non-linting cloth or singe-use endoscopic sponge moistened with clean water. Do not wipe the connector.
  • Rinse the endoscopic shaft by soaking it in a large volume of clean, lukewarm water (for example, eight liters) for at least three minutes to remove residual cleaning solution.
  • Rinse the endoscopic shaft by soaking it in a large volume of clean, lukewarm water (for example, eight liters) for at least three minutes to remove residual cleaning solution.
  • Visually inspect the scan head and endoscopic shaft for remaining biological material. If any is found, repeat the cleaning process.
  1. Residual cleaners left on the transducer can cause damage.
  • Dry the transducer with a clean, non-linting towel. Examine the transducer and cable for damage, such as cracks or splitting where fluid can enter. If damage is evident, discontinue use of the transducer, and contact FUJIFILM SonoSite or your local representative.
WARNING
Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) recommended by the chemical manufacturer, such as protective eyewear and gloves.

Cautions
  • Always disconnect the transducer from the system before cleaning. When disconnecting the transducer from the system, follow the steps in the SonoSite X-Porte User Guide.
  • Do not bend the endoscopic shaft smaller than a 20 cm (8 inch) curve. Exceeding this minimum bend diameter can damage the endoscope or its watertight coating.
  • Do not use unapproved cleaning agents, such as alcohol or bleach (for example, Sani-Cloth wipes) as these can damage the transducer and void the warranty. For more information about approved cleaning agents, see Table 4-2.
  • Do not skip any steps or abbreviate the cleaning and disinfecting process in any way.
Cleaners and disinfectants not listed on FUJIFILM SonoSite's website have not been evaluated for
compatibility and may cause damage to the transducer. For approved chemicals, follow the manufacturer’s
instructions for concentration, temperature, and duration.