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4.4
Rubber and Plastic
The following materials CAN be sterilised in the STAT
IM
B:
Nylon, polycarbonate (Lexan
™
), polypropylene,
PTFE (Teflon
™
), acetal (Delrin
™
), polysulfone (Udel
™
),
polyetherimide (Ultem
™
), silicone rubber, and polyester.
When loading rubber and plastic tubing on the tray:
›
DO
arrange receptacles upside down to prevent
water from pooling inside.
›
DO
process dental impression trays on the top tray
to optimize drying.
›
DO
process on the top tray any items with shapes that could collect water.
4.5
Using Biological and Chemical Indicators
Use chemical process monitors suitable for autoclaves/steam sterilisers at the indicated cycle temperatures
and times in or on each package or load being sterilised. For biological indicator usage and frequency,
follow the indicator manufacturer’s instructions and your local regulations, guidelines and standards.
CAUTION!
The following materials CANNOT be sterilised in the STAT
IM
B:
Polyethylene, ABS, styrene, cellulosics, PVC, Acrylic (Plexiglas™), PPO (Noryl™), latex, neoprene, and
similar materials.
Note for Ophthalmology Use
In the field of ophthalmology, proper wrapping or pouching of surgical instruments will reduce
the exposure of instruments to any process residues during the sterilisation cycle. Due to
the highly sensitive nature of some types of surgery (particularly in ophthalmology), SciCan
recommends that all instruments be routinely packaged or wrapped and processed through
the wrapped cycle of the sterilizer. This practice is the suggested approach for the majority of
sterile surgical procedures and is referenced in most leading infection control publications and
guidelines.
