Page 176 - policy and procedure infection control

Policies and Procedures on Infection Control

11.5.3 Chemical Monitoring
To show that items have been exposed to sterilization process. The indicators
(internal and external) help to monitor the physical conditions within the steril-
izer and alert personnel to detect malfunction and improper packaging/loading.
Indicators do not establish sterility of an item.

11.5.4 Biological Monitoring
Positive assurance that sterilization conditions have been achieved can be ob-
tained only through a biologic control test. Items should not be use if they do not
pass the biological test.

Consecutive biologic monitors should be run:
• Each time the sterilizer is calibrated
• After repairs
• During installation of sterilizer
• Relocated
• Preferably daily or at least once a week, and with each load of implants
• 3 hours test by CSSU or 48 hour by lab

11.6 Pre-Sterilization Process
To achieve the sterilization process, the items to be sterilized should be pre-cleaned to
lower the bio-burden to the lowest possible level. Decontaminate and cleaning of items
should follow according to CSSU SOP.

11.7 Preparation for Sterilization

Surgical instruments, supplies and most medical devices must be prepared and packed
so that their sterility can be maintained to the point of use.
11.7.1 Individual inspection and examination of instruments including
• Cleanliness
• Function of any instruments

• Integrity of instruments
• Lubricate and test for proper functioning
11.7.2 Packaging and wrapping of used items prior to sterilization
The packaging material chosen for sterile products must be non toxic and
conform with the following basic principles:-
• It must allow sterilant contact
• Allow sterile presentation of the package contents.
• Permeability to air, steam and gaseous

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