HCV infection from reprocessed single use surgical devices.

[CE]

Wondering what the views or facts are for the risk of HCV infection from single use (meant to be disposable) surgical devices that are reprocessed to be used again. The hospital that I work at is going to this option to save money. I am totally against it since disposable single use devices are not made of the same material as reusable devices that withstand the high temps of sterilization, and what if the reprocessing is not done efficiently or properly. I did have a blood transfusion twice in my life, but I also had several invasive procedures. Just assume I got it from the transfusion. What data is out there on this matter? Is there a documented infection rate?
 Thanks.

[lporterrn]

Like you, I'd have to see the data. Like you, I am concerned. Sorry, I don't know what the data is, but the hospital should be able to see that data.

[sapphire101]

CE most states have public concern 800 numbers that can be called anonymously to report any hospital activity that is suspect. These numbers are usually posted prominently in public areas such as waiting rooms and maybe this will sound like extremism, but I would call this in.
Let the experts sort it out. You action may save someone else.

[CE]

I don't believe this is anything that would constitute reporting since the FDA and CDC acknowledges it and allows it. My thoughts are that reusable devicescare made of more superior material to be cleaned easily and withstand the reprocessing/sterilizing regimen, whereas one time use devices are made cheaper, contain sharp, tight fittings that are NOT easily cleaned nor can be sterilized properly. The only data the hospital sees is the data the vendor shows them in order to sell the used device. The hospitals only care about saving money at the expense of the patient's health. These patients are totally unaware that they had this device used on them. I have to wonder if the hospital bills for the full price of a new device. And as for the patient, you all know very well how long we had HCV before actually knowing we had it, therefore, the patient will not know anything is wrong for years and by that time, the surgery is not suspected. This is so wrong! I did find a very good article on this matter.  http://rense.com/general77/hepp.htm
Seems there is not much we can do.

[morning_glory]

Once again, it is all about saving money, not people.

MG