Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER) Practice Exam

High-risk endoscopes require rigorous monitoring to ensure they are effectively cleaned and reprocessed. The necessity for testing every time an endoscope is processed stems from the potential risks associated with inadequate cleaning. High-risk endoscopes are used in invasive procedures and can harbor pathogens if not properly sanitized, posing significant risks to patient safety.

By implementing a testing protocol every time an endoscope is processed, facilities can maintain a high level of confidence in their cleaning procedures. This frequent verification helps identify any issues immediately, allowing for prompt corrective actions and safeguarding against cross-contamination and infections.

The other options do not provide the required level of oversight needed for high-risk endoscopes. Testing once a month, for instance, may not catch problems in time, and only checking when issues arise could lead to patient exposure before any potential contamination is identified. Regular testing after each use is essential in a high-risk setting to ensure that each endoscope meets the necessary cleanliness standards before reuse.