Factors Influencing the Cleaning Quality of Reusable Medical Devices in a Chinese Healthcare Facility

Inadequate cleaning is a major contributor to substandard sterilization and poses a significant risk for healthcare-associated infections. This study aimed to identify factors influencing the cleaning quality of reusable medical devices and propose measures to enhance their safe use and reduce iatrogenic infection risk. We conducted expert consultations to determine factors affecting the cleaning quality of reusable medical devices. Data were collected from the hospital’s central sterile supply department (CSSD) between January and June 2022 using a self-developed inspection form evaluating cleaning quality. Additionally, cleaning staff’s knowledge and perceptions regarding medical device cleaning were assessed through a self-designed questionnaire.

Significant associations (P < 0.05) were observed for incorrect cleaning procedures, inappropriate cleaning methods, non-standard pre-treatment, insufficient knowledge or misperceptions of device cleaning, and complex device structures. Independent factors linked to cleaning quality included adherence to correct cleaning procedures (odds ratio [OR] = 0.216, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.170–0.275), cleaning method selection (ultrasonic cleaning OR = 3.995, 95% CI: 2.937–5.434; spray cleaning OR = 0.893, 95% CI: 0.735–1.085), standard pre-treatment (OR = 1.470, 95% CI: 1.191–1.815), complex device structures (OR = 1.534, 95% CI: 1.247–1.888), and correct perceptions of cleaning among staff (OR = 0.530, 95% CI: 0.436–0.645). Improving the cleaning quality of reusable medical devices requires strict adherence to standardized procedures, appropriate cleaning method selection and pre-treatment, enhanced staff knowledge and awareness, and disassembly of complex devices to minimize cleaning defects.