How often should washer disinfection screens be cleaned?

Cleaning washer disinfection screens daily is essential for maintaining optimal performance and ensuring effective cleaning in the sterilization process. Daily cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of debris and biofilm that can accumulate in the screens. This buildup can hinder water flow and reduce the efficacy of the washing cycle, potentially compromising the cleanliness of the instruments being processed. Regular maintenance of these screens supports the operational efficiency of the washer-disinfector and ensures that the disinfection process is thorough, adhering to best practices in central service operations.

Other frequencies, such as weekly or monthly, may not adequately address the potential issues that arise from daily use, resulting in compromised cleaning efficacy and potential patient safety concerns. Additionally, cleaning every shift would be excessive and may not be necessary if daily cleaning is performed effectively.