Endoscopy Microorganisms

This guide supports interpretation of microorganisms that may be identified in endoscopy water, final rinse water, AER water and related reprocessing environments. Risk ratings are designed as an internal escalation guide and should be interpreted alongside AS/NZS 5369:2023 requirements, total viable count results, endotoxin results, sample type, repeat trends and site-specific clinical risk.

What each risk rating means
Risk rating Meaning Action
Critical Direct serious endoscopy water failure or major infection-control concern Immediate escalation and repeat/confirmatory investigation
High Clinically significant or inappropriate organism for final rinse water Urgent investigation
Amber Possible biofilm, environmental, handling or trend issue Investigate if repeated, elevated count, or linked with TVC/endotoxin
Low Lower clinical relevance Monitor, review sampling technique and trend

Showing all 62 organisms

Gram-negative bacteria

Gram-positive bacteria

Mycobacteria

These deserve their own bucket. They may be described as Gram-positive in some references, but operationally they are acid-fast organisms and should be managed separately.

Not Gram-classified / not bacteria