Chapter 4 – Sterilization
19
NOTICE:
If possible, sterilize textiles and instruments separately from each other in
separate sterilization containers or sterilization packages.
This way you achieve improved drying results.
Textiles
Observe the following instructions for treating textiles and putting
the textiles into sterilization containers:
Danger!
■
Comply with the instructions of the textile manufacturer for treatment
and sterilization and observe relevant standards and directives.
■
Adjust the folds of the textiles parallel to each other.
■
Stack the textiles in the sterilization containers vertically if possible,
and not too closely together, so that flow channels can form.
■
Retain the vertical stacking method when you pack the textiles in
sterilization containers.
■
If textile packages do not stay together, wrap the textiles in
sterilization paper.
■
Sterilize only dry textiles.
■
The textiles may have no direct contact to ground and walls of the
sterilization chamber, otherwise they absorb
→
condensate.
in case of non-observance, the steam penetration of the textiles can
be obstructed and/or bad drying results can result. Unsterile textiles
could be the consequence. This could mean endangering the health
of the patient and the practice team.
Instruments
Observe the following instructions for treating used and brand new
instruments:
Danger of infection!
■
Follow without fail the instructions of the instruments manufacturer
for treatment and sterilization, and observe the relevant standards
and directives of your country.
■
Clean the instruments very thoroughly, for instance with the help of a
thermal disinfector.
■
After disinfection and cleaning, rinse the instruments if possible with
→
demineralized or
→
distilled water and subsequently thoroughly dry
the instruments with a clean, non-fuzzing cloth.
■
Employ only cleaning materials which are suitable for steam
sterilization. Ask the manufacturer about the cleaning materials.
In case of non-observance, residual dirt can possibly be loosened
up during sterilization in the steam pressure. Rests of the
disinfection and cleaning agents lead to corrosion. Increased
maintenance requirements and impairment of the function of the
autoclaves can be the consequence.
Unsuitable cleaning materials, e.g. water-rejecting cleaning
materials or steam-impermeable oils, can result in unsterile
instruments. This endangers your health and the health of your
patients.