Overview - Risk-based approach
A risk-based approach is a systematic method that addresses point-of-use processing, thorough cleaning, disinfection, sterilisation, storage, and transport of reusable medical devices.
This section is designed to provide guidance on how to apply a risk-based approach to the reprocessing of reusable medical devices. It describes a systematic method for managing risks to patients, the practice team, equipment, and the environment. By assigning a level of risk, practices can enact effective control measures.
A practice that reprocesses reusable medical devices is required to develop its own risk assessment process. This then becomes part of the practice’s overall infection prevention. To do so, the practice needs to use the process outlined in this section or another valid model that meets the current Australian Standard, AS 5369 – Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities.
A risk management system is a national requirement of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) for reprocessing reusable medical devices. It is also required as part of general practice accreditation against the Standards for general practices (6th edition) (See CG9 – Infection prevention and control, including reprocessing).