Page 55 of 110 Pages
11. 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. It is recommended to wash instruments with an ultrasonic cleaner, using
detergent and mineral-free water.
4. Launder textile wraps prior to reuse.
5. 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).
6. Materials, including materials used for inner wraps, shall be compatible with
the item being packed and the sterilizing method selected.
7. Do not place materials to be sterilized directly on the chamber’s wall. Place
the material only on trays, rack, etc.
11.1 Instruments
1. Before placing an instrument on the sterilizer tray, make sure that
instruments which are not of the same metal, (stainless steel, carbon steel,
etc.) are separated and placed on different trays.
2. Place empty containers upside down to prevent accumulation of water.
Note:
Check manufacturer’s instructions for the sterilization of each item.
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