Rigid Reusable Sterilization Containers Quiz & Flashcards

Study Notes

Rigid containers are almost indestructible, providing sterility and customer reassurance if handled and maintained according to manufacturer's instructions.
Containers should be:
- Easily disassembled for cleaning, drying, and storage
- Suitable for the method of sterilization being used
- Compatible with the cleaning method and cleaning agent being used
- Suitable for the storage configuration
- Lockable, tamperproof, and non-resealable
- Packed in a manner that allows for penetration of the sterilizing agent
- Able to remove contents without the risk of contamination of the contents
Containers have filter and/or valve systems that are secure and must be in proper working order before sterilization.
Examine the filter plate for integrity both before use and after the sterilization process.
Clean containers between each use; clean and check the seal between the base and the lid for possible damage.
Containers should be serviced regularly by the manufacturer as per the IFUs.

Creates ergonomics challenge to those who will lift them due to heaviness.
Requires additional space to store them as they are larger than wrapped trays.
Longer cycle time may be required to avoid issues associated with excessively wet packs.
Entails extra effort since the containers must be cleaned between uses.
Potential risk of filter dislodge leading to instruments contamination.

Peel-apart pouches with a see-through front and paper backing are often used for single devices or small loads.
They come in reels of various sizes where both ends need to be sealed or as single forms of various sizes for self-seal.

Microbiological monitoring is carried out in the IAP room according to hospital infection control policies.
Monitoring is used as an early warning system to alert staff when environmental quality is drifting out of control.
One method of monitoring involves placing contact or settle plates in pre-planned locations in the room and then sending them to the lab for culturing and analysis.

Staff movement, between dirty and clean areas is not possible without passing through a clothing change and hand-wash area.
Protective clothing is worn by personnel entering the IAP room to reduce the risk of possible contamination of the clean reusable medical devices and the environment.
Managers ensure that protective clothing is available and all personnel are responsible for correct use and disposal.

Specialists wear:
- A freshly laundered scrub suit to minimize bacterial shedding and provide comfort and a professional appearance.
- A clean, single-use, low-lint surgical hat or hood that confines all hair.

ANSI/AAMI ST77 containment devices for reusable medical devices sterilization and ANSI/ AAMI ST79, comprehensive guide to steam sterilization and sterility assurance in health care facility.
Maximum weight of surgical instrument sets trays is 25 pounds, including the weight of the instruments and the instruments containers.

Two main considerations for packaging are the type of wrap or packaging chosen and the packaging techniques applied.
Packaging should:
- Allow for complete and secure enclosure of the item(s)
- Protect the contents of the package from physical damage as far as possible due to stacking or compression
- Allow a method of sealing that results in a complete seal and provide adequate seal integrity
- Be resistant to tears, abrasions, and punctures
- Ensure the seal is tamper-proof and able to seal only once
- Permit adequate air removal

Made of nonwoven Spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS) fabrics and designed as single-use products.
Available in a variety of sizes and weights.

Sequential Wrapping: Two layers of wrap material are wrapped individually using a fold technique.
Simultaneous Wrapping: Both layers of wrap material are wrapped together simultaneously.
Square Fold Technique: Items are placed on the table parallel to the wrapper.
Envelope Fold Technique: Items are placed on the table in a diamond shape to the wrapper.