"RMDs [Reusable medical devices]/other devices that come into contact with sterile body cavities or are used on the critical aseptic field during invasive procedures shall be considered critical medical devices. These devices shall be reprocessed to the highest level that they can tolerate between uses on individual patients/clients in accordance with the reprocessing instructions. followed by high-level disinfection at a minimum.
Cleaning, disinfection or sterilization, as appropriate, of RMDs/other devices shall be performed between uses even if a single-use sheath/sleeve/protective barrier is used. Single-use sheaths/sleeves/protective barriers for RMDs/other devices shall not be used as a substitute for cleaning, disinfection or sterilization."