28
will allow for better exposure
to
steam
for sterilization and better
circulation of air for drying.
23.
If spotting is detected on the instruments, the first step would be to use an
ordinary eraser to remove the spot. If there is no pitting under the spot, the
spot was only dirt. Dirt spots on an instrument may be an indication that the
autoclave needs to be cleaned or that the instruments were not adequately
cleaned or dried. If removal of the spot reveals pitting, the spot was most
likely rust. Rust spots on an instrument are not uncommon on inexpensive
instruments. It may also be an indication that the instruments were rinsed in
tap water with a high content of minerals. These minerals when exposed to
high temperature and steam will accelerate the oxidation of the metal. One
suggestion would be to final rinse the instruments in distilled water.
24.
If the instruments exhibit a discoloration, this can be due to the mixing of
carbon steel and stainless steel. When these two metals come into contact
with each other electrolysis occurs that breaks down the metal. The best
solution is to separately wrap the carbon steel to insulate it from other
instruments or the trays.
25.
Packs
VERY IMPORTANT!
When sterilizing cotton wool or pads, it is essential to wrap them in paper
or cotton bags to prevent the multi-purpose valve and the autoclave
openings from becoming clogged with remnants of the material.
1.
Place packs upright on trays, side by side.
2.
Packs should not touch the chamber walls.
3.
Pack
instrument
sets
in
a
manner
that
prevents
damage
to
delicate
items.
4.
Pack hollowware sets so that all openings face the same direction and
so that the contents cannot move inside the pack.
5.
Load packs of folded operating room drapes with layers vertical,
allowing air to be removed from the packs rapidly.
6.
Do not place packs of hollowware and trays of instruments above
textile packs or soft goods to avoid wetting caused by condensation
from items above.
7.
Load items packed in flexible packaging materials on edge with paper
to laminate, or flat with the plastic surface downwards.
Note: The instrument manufacturer’s recommendations shall be observed,
concerning the sterilization data for each type of material.
