Provision for the supply and management of endoscopy decontamination equipment

Queen Alexandra Hospital currently has endoscope decontamination facilities located in three sites:

• The main Endoscopy Unit, located on D Level – this unit has 4 double-chamber EWDs and storage cabinet space for 65 scopes used for the Gastroenterology service.
• The Hospital Sterilization & Disinfection Unit (HSDU) on F Level – HSDU has an Endoscopy Decontamination Unit (EDU) with 3 double-chamber EWDs and storage cabinet space for 20 scopes. This unit reprocesses scopes for Theatres (D & E Level), the Surgical Outpatient Department (D Level), Urology and ENT services. There are additional storage cabinets located in these areas providing space for 65 scopes.
• The Respiratory Outpatient Department on C Level – this service has an integral EDU comprising of 1 double-chamber EWD and storage for 10 endoscopes. The hospital is seeking to replace the equipment for the main unit and HSDU unit and to add an alternative storage method for the HSDU site. Vision
• The Trust’s vision is for improved flexible endoscope services that is future proofed for continuing growth over the next seven to ten years. This includes validated drying cabinets to allow for longer storage times (30 days) and less wear on scopes and reprocessing equipment;
• Alternative endoscope packaging (vacuum or other) to provide longer storage times for scopes used less frequently in Theatres and Outpatient areas;
• Faster washer times allowing increased capacity and quicker turnaround to ensure clinical services are supported.
• Modern, well maintained machinery that has minimal downtime.
• A supplier that can provide an efficient service reactive to the Trust’s needs, including excellent contract management and reporting.