The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates recognizes that few things are more important to GI/endoscopy nursing professionals than infection control. SGNA is excited to present the GI/endoscopy Infection Control Resource Center. This Web site provides a central location for SGNA infection control resources and other pertinent information, in order to help GI units and facilities determine processes and answer questions.

SGNA is a professional organization of nurses and associates dedicated to the safe and effective practice of gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing. SGNA is committed to meeting the needs of members and the GI/endoscopy community. With a mission to advance the science and practice of GI/endoscopy nursing and an advocate for safe and effective patient care, SGNA has established the “gold standard” for gastrointestinal endoscope cleaning and high-level disinfection.

Please explore the GI/endoscopy Infection Control Resource Center for the following:

• SGNA and ASGE release a joint statement on JAMA study regarding infection control at ambulatory surgical centers. Click here to view the letter.

• Infection Control panel presents during the SGNA Annual Course in Orlando, FL. Click here for highlights.

• SGNA recently hosted a GI Summit: Reducing Barriers in Infection Control in Chicago, IL. Click here for more information.

• Important Industry Announcement — Vancouver Island Health Authority notified patients of potential infectious exposure. Click here for more information.

• Important Industry Announcement — FDA and STERIS announce consent agreement terms regarding STERIS System 1© Liquid Chemical Sterilization System. Click here for more information.

• SGNA Resources, including official SGNA practice documents and educational offerings:

  • Standards of Infection Control in Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2009) and Guidelines for the Use of High Level Disinfectants and Sterilants for Reprocessing of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2007) — SGNA Standards and Guidelines

  • Statement on Reprocessing of Water Bottles Used During Endoscopy (2009), Statement on Reprocessing of Endoscopic Accessories and Valves (2009) and Reuse of Single-Use Critical Medical Devices (2008) — SGNA Position Statements

  • Educational courses and available publications by SGNA, focusing on infection control

• Results from the infection control SGNA Member poll conducted in November 2009

• Links to current issues offering pertinent information

• GI/endoscopy related links with helpful information and resources including:

  • Center for Disease Control and Prevention

  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration

  • Emergency Care Research Institute

If you have any suggestions for additional information or site improvements, please contact SGNA Headquarters.