Because the decision to reuse single-use devices now lies with individual healthcare facilities, the ball is in our court. We must evaluate its benefits and identify all associated liabilities. We should utilize the growing expertise of central processing and other healthcare personnel, and press device manufacturers to provide reuse information for their products. We must establish strict reuse procedures to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken. We must strive to protect the safety of all those affected by reuse--especially patients. It is largely fears about safety that have created controversy about reuse. But, it is within our power to provide safe products if we approach reuse objectivity, rationally, and methodically.
