What is an OPA?
0.55% Ortho-phthalaldehyde Ortho-phthalaldehyde 0.55% (OPA) was introduced to marked as Cidex OPA Solution in 1999.
OPA is commonly used as a high-level disinfectant for medical instruments. Disinfection with OPA is indicated for semi-critical instruments that come into contact with mucous membranes or broken skin, such as specula, laryngeal mirrors, and internal ultrasound probes.
Why the EPA wants you to eliminate glutaraldehyde use:**
- Glutaraldehyde is a potent occupational skin irritant.
- Glutaraldehyde is a recognized cause of occupational asthma.
- Patients, visitors and hospital employees may be needlessly exposed to glutaraldehyde vapors in patient rooms and clinic areas where open bins or poorly ventilated reprocessing units are in use.
- Cost-competitive alternatives exist that meet infection control standards and reduce risks to patient, visitor and employee health.
- Several regulatory organizations, including OSHA and NIOSH, are re-evaluating their exposure limits for glutaraldehyde.
**Reference www.epa.gov
