Expert Comments on Water Bottle use in Endoscopy

APIC - Guidelines for Infection Control Practice

If parts and accessories such as valves, forceps, brushes, snares, tubing, and water bottles cannot be adequately cleaned before further processing, then sterile, disposable items should be used.

Sterile water should be used to fill the water bottle. The water bottle and its connecting tube should be sterilized or receive high-level disinfection at least daily.

Gastroenterology Nursing - A Core Curriculum

Water bottles are another accessory device requiring special attention. They should be sterilized or high-level disinfected daily. If high-level disinfected, a thorough rinse using sterile water should be used to remove any chemical residue. Water bottles should be filled with sterile water for endoscopic irrigation. (Martin and Reighelderfer, 1994).

The Merck Index, 11th edition

This quote is in reference to the chemical that occurs during EtO sterilization if water mixes with the sterilizing agent:

Human Toxicity: Constitutes a hazard when ingested: e.g., drinking of antifreeze fluid.

Use: Antifreeze in cooling and heating systems.