Design and implementation of the infection prevention program into risk management: Managing high level disinfection and sterilization in the outpatient setting.

Reusable, invasive medical devices within the outpatient setting pose a risk for patient harm. Ineffective disinfection of medical devices can potentially lead to transmission of pathogens between patients; and improper handling can lead to patient injury. A risk assessment was conducted, and the results strongly supported the necessity to develop a robust infection prevention program within the risk management department.