Page 174 - policy and procedure infection control

Policies and Procedures on Infection Control

11. STERILIZATION

11.1 Introduction
The sterilization process provides the highest level of assurances that an item can be
expected to be free of known viable pathogens and non pathogenic microorganisms, including
spore. Bacteria spores are the most resistant of all living organisms due to the capacity to
withstand external destruction agents.

11.2 Purpose
To monitor and enforce controls necessary to prevent cross infection according to infection
control policies.

11.3 Definition
Sterilization - Is a process which achieves the complete killing or removal of all type of
microorganism including spore

11.4 Methods of Sterilization
Selection of the agent used to achieve sterility depends primarily on the nature of the item
to be sterilized. Sterilization process either physical or chemical and each method have
its advantages and disadvantages. The following are available sterilizing agent:-
11.4.1 Thermal (physical)
 Steam under pressure/moist heat:-
Steam sterilizer in an autoclave is one of the most common form of
sterilization.
 Hot air /dry heat:- Rarely use in CSSU.
11.4.2 Chemical / cold sterilizers
Chemical sterilization is used for instruments and other items that are heat-
sensitive or
when methods that require heat are unavailable.
• Ethylene oxide gas – its use should be discouraged.
• Hydrogen peroxide plasma/vapor/low Temperature Gas Plasma Sterilizers
– It is use to sterilize metal and nonmetal surgical devices at low
temperatures in a dry environment.

11.5 Monitoring The Sterilization Cycle

To ensure that instruments and supplies are sterile when used, it is essential that the
sterilization process be monitored by.

Ministry of Health Malaysia 163