APPLICATION OF RISK ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY IN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AUDITS IN ENDOSCOPY (Report 1)

Abstract

Background. Since endoscopy introduction in the last century the number and significance of endoscopic procedures have substantially increased globally. Concurrently, there has grown the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) during endoscopic procedures particularly due to equipment failures, breaches in endoscope reprocessing, and noncompliance with established guidelines. Objective. To develop a standardized checklist for epidemiological audits in endoscopy departments/units, based on the risk analysis methodology. Material and methods. The study employed a risk assessment and prioritization framework (WHO, 2021) as its core methodology. Results. A qualitative four-level risk grading scale, marked using a “traffic light” system, was designed and integrated into the checklist. The checklist covered two audit domains: (1) “General Training of Medical Staff” (13 items) and (2) “Assessment of Infrastructure, Equipment, and Technological Processes in Endoscopy Units” (23 items). The developed tool was piloted in nine endoscopy departments across healthcare facilities in the Republic of Belarus. In the first domain, 58 total non-conformities were identified: 47 (81%) classified as Categories A and B, 10 (17%) as Category C, and 1 as Category D. In the second domain, 87 non-conformities were documented: 62 (71%) in Categories A and B, 12 (14%) in Category C, and 13 (15%) in Category D. These findings suggest that a significant proportion of non-conformities remain undetected in routine practice, potentially leading to serious complications and systemic failures over time. Conclusion. The integration of a systematic risk assessment approach through the use of standardized checklists and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) creates a synergistic effect that enhances risk management processes. This strategy contributes to improved safety and quality in endoscopy-related healthcare delivery.