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9.Preparation before Sterilization
The purpose of packaging and wrapping of items for sterilization is
to provide an effective barrier against sources of potential
contamination in order to maintain sterility and to permit aseptic
removal of the contents of the pack. Packaging and wrapping
materials should permit the removal of air from the pack,
penetration of the sterilizing water vapor into the pack and removal
of the sterilizing vapor.
The basic principle determining the size, mass and contents of
instrument and hollowware packs is that the contents are sterile
and dry immediately on completion of the drying cycle and removal
of the pack from the sterilizer chamber.
Instruments to be sterilized must be clean, free from any residual
matter, such as debris, blood, pads or any other material. Such
substances may cause damage to the contents being sterilized
and to the sterilizer.
1. Before use, check inside the autoclave chamber to ensure that no
items have been left from the previous cycle.
2. Immediately after use, clean instruments thoroughly to dispose of
any residue.
3. Follow the instrument manufacturer instructions.
4. It is recommended to wash instruments with an ultrasonic cleaner,
using detergent and mineral-free water.
5. Launder textile wraps prior to reuse.
6. After cleaning, rinse instruments for 30 seconds. (Follow
manufacturer’s instructions on the use of products for cleaning and
lubricating instruments after using the ultrasonic cleaner).
7. Materials, including materials used for inner wraps, shall be
compatible with the item being packed and the sterilizing method
selected.
8. Use single-use wraps once only and discard after use.
9. If the unit is equipped with a printer, verify if a new roll of paper is
necessary.
9.1 Instruments
1. Before placing an instrument onto the sterilizer baskets, ensure
that instruments that are not constructed of the same metal
(stainless steel, carbon steel, etc.) are separated and placed in a
different place.
2. Place empty containers upside down to prevent accumulation of
water.
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