23
Using wrapped cassettes and containers
For wrapped loads, place a chemical indicator inside each of the wrappings.
When using wrapped cassettes:
›
DO
ensure you always use suitably porous material
(sterilisation paper, muslin napkins, etc.) and close
the wrapping with adhesive tape designed for use in
autoclaves.
›
DON’T
close the wrap using staples, pins or other
fasteners that could compromise the sterility of the
load.
4.3 Unwrapped Instruments
Unwrapped instruments are also referred to as Immediate
Use Instruments because once exposed to ambient or
external conditions, they cannot be maintained in a sterile
state.
If you plan to store your instruments after sterilisation,
wrap them according to the instrument manufacturer’s
instructions, select the appropriate wrapped cycle and
allow it to run to completion.
›
DO
use the trays provided with your unit to hold
unwrapped instruments.
›
DO
arrange instruments made of different metals (stainless steel, tempered steel, aluminum, etc.) on
different trays or keep them well separated from each other.
›
DO
arrange receptacles upside down to prevent water from pooling inside.
›
DO
ensure objects on trays are always arranged with some distance between them ensuring they will
remain in the same position for the entire sterilisation cycle.
›
DO
ensure that hinged instruments are sterilised in an open position.
›
DO
position cutting instruments (scissors, scalpels, etc.) so that they do not come into contact with
each other during sterilisation.
›
DON’T
load the trays beyond their maximum indicated limit. (See STAT
IM
B Load Capacities chart at
the start of Section 4. Loading Instruments).
