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9. Cleaning
Only manual non-immersion cleaning as described should be used
for this instrument.
Do not autoclave or immerse in cleaning fluids.
Always disconnect power supply from source before
cleaning.
a Wipe the external surface with a clean absorbent, non-
shedding cloth dampened with a water / detergent solution
(2% detergent by volume) or water / isopropyl alcohol solution
(70% IPA by volume). Avoid optical surfaces.
b Ensure that excess solution does not enter the instrument. Use
caution to ensure cloth is not saturated with solution.
c Surfaces must be carefully hand-dried using a clean non-
shedding cloth.
d Safely dispose of used cleaning materials.
Sterilization
Plastic reusable Speculae will degrade if exposed to ultra-violet
light, dry heat or gamma irradiation. These methods of
sterilization must not be used.
The cleaning and sterilization of reusable speculum, metal tongue
depressor, nasal dilator, laryngeal and post natal mirrors can be
accomplished as follows:
a Manually clean all surfaces of the units using a suitable brush
and water/detergent solution (2% detergent by volume).
Ensure that hinged versions of specula are cleaned in both
open and closed positions. Ensure all crevices are accessed.
Solution can be heated to no more than 35°C.
b Carefully examine to ensure that all visible contamination has
been removed.
c Safely dispose of used cleaning materials.
d Sterilize using a validated steam sterilizer complying with BS 3970
or equivalent standard. Operating cycle condition as below:
134 - 138°C sterilizing temperature at 2.25 bar operating
pressure for minimum of 3 minutes hold time.
e Inspect for any visible damage prior to use.
f Nominal life of 400 sterilization cycles for
reusable Speculum.
Disposable Speculae - use once only
and dispose of safely.
