Automated endoscope reprocessors (AERs) primarily are designed to?

Automated endoscope reprocessors (AERs) are specifically designed to clean and achieve high-level disinfection of flexible endoscopes, which is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing cross-contamination. The process typically involves multiple steps, including rinsing and cleaning the endoscopes to remove any bioburden and debris, followed by a high-level disinfection phase that effectively eliminates a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms.

High-level disinfection is essential for endoscopes due to their complex design and the presence of lumens, which can harbor potentially harmful pathogens. While sterilization is the highest level of decontamination, it is generally not the primary function of AERs because the equipment may not withstand the conditions necessary for sterilization, such as steam or dry heat.

Therefore, the primary functions of an AER encompass both the cleaning of the endoscope surfaces and high-level disinfection, emphasizing their role in infection control without necessarily achieving complete sterilization. This understanding aligns with the practices mandated by regulatory bodies for safe endoscopy procedures.