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Disassemble or sufficiently loosen multiple-part instruments prior to
packaging to permit the sterilizing agent to come into contact with all
parts of the instrument.
Tilt on edge items prone to entrap air and moisture, e.g. hollowware, so
that only minimal resistance to removal of air, the passage of steam
and condensate will be met.
Load items within the boundaries of the tray so that they do not touch
the chamber walls, or fall off when the tray is in move.
The operator may use racks to allow for adequate separation of
packaged instruments.
Load trays in such a way as to allow steam to move freely among all
items.
Once a week, use a biological spore test indicator in any load to make
sure sterilization is performed.
Make sure that all instruments remain apart during the sterilization
cycle.
Empty canisters should be placed upside-down, in order to prevent
accumulation of water.
Allow a distance of approximately 2.5 cm between trays to permit
steam circulation.
7.2. Packs
Place packs upright on trays, side by side.
Packs should not touch the chamber walls.
Pack instrument sets in a manner that prevents damage to delicate
items.
Pack hollowware sets so that all openings face the same direction and
so that the contents cannot move inside the pack.
Load packs of folded operating room drapes with layers vertical,
allowing air to be removed from the packs rapidly.
Do not place packs of hollowware and trays of instruments above
textile packs or soft goods in order to avoid wetting caused by
condensation from items above.
Do not stack pouches. It is recommended that a Tuttnauer
Pouch
Rack be used. This will allow the operator to place pouches on their
side, which will increase capacity and provide proper spacing to ensure
steam penetration and promote adequate drying.
Load items packed in flexible packaging materials on edge with paper
to laminate, or flat with the paper surface upwards.
Note:
The manufacturer’s recommendations shall be observed, concerning
the sterilization data for each type of material.
