Reprocessing single-use devices in hospitals in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais

Abstract

Reprocessing single-use devices has been a common practice in hospitals with economic and ecological advantages. The disadvantages are the risks to patient and ethical issues. This study intended to examine this practice in hospitals of Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, to find out how it is done, which products are reprocessed and how this is controlled. Semi-structured questionnaires were used in 23 hospitals. We found that the reprocessing of single use material is done in 91,3% institutions. The reprocessed product most widely mentioned was the intubation tracheal tube (60.9%). Control of the number of re-uses is done essential by visual inspection (61.4%), checking if there are alterations on the surface of the product (stains, scratches or cracks). It is clear there is a lack of structured protocols systematized guiding reuse and a lack of standards to justify the disposal of the materials.