When you're in the market for an AER often times the "little things", recurring costs like test strips and other consumables, are overlooked or at least put on the back-burner. The features an AER might offer are usually the first consideration and the price is right there with it as the price may rule out many of the options you have. But those "little things" will be what you're left with after you take the plunge on the purchase. And what if you ruled out an option based solely on the machine's price but didn't take into consideration the savings on those little things, like consumables that could have netted a lower overall cost of purchase. So below is a list of some of the little things to consider when you're choosing the best automatic endoscopic reprocessor for your practice.

Most manufacturers offer their own, or recommended consumable products. Sometimes they are required and others just recommended. The difference in costs can be huge. Applying that same logic to the items below might help as well.

Flushing Aids: While this is a separate apparatus, depending on the AER you choose you may want to consider getting one. Flushing aids can help with creating a consistently safe means to flush endoscope channels. Some even offer data monitoring and automated flushing modes.

Brushes: There's a wide range of brushes that are typically required to operate many AERs. These brushes clean lumen channels often in a single pass. It's important to choose the correct size of course based on the equipment you have or are planning on purchasing. And consider whether they are disposable or not as you don't want to add even more cleaning procedures.

Detergents: A wide array of detergents are available. But make sure what the exact requirements of the AER you are choosing are as some are more flexible than others.

Wipes: Disinfectant Wipes are important to have throughout most of the cleaning processes and at bedside. Typically they are ready to use individual sheets. It also may be a good idea to make sure they are environmentally responsible.

High-Level Disinfectants and Test Strips: Like detergents, there are a wide range of disinfectants and test-strips. Just make sure to disinfectant you choose is compatible with the AER you purchase.

Hookups: Are the connection between the endoscope and the AER (Automated Endoscopic Reprocessor) You must find the correct hookups for your specific AER. You also may want to consider hookup cassettes to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and protect the endoscope from damage during transport. There's a number of other items like a transport case, hookup rack and multi-use hookup racks to consider as well.