Sterilization and Inspection of Surgical Devices

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of inspecting surgical devices after being unloaded from the washer-disinfector?

To test the sharpness of cutting edges

To inspect for cleanliness, stains, corrosion, cracks, and breakage (correct)

To ensure devices are free from corrosion

To check for completeness of device sets

Why is it recommended to check devices under magnification?

To inspect for corrosion

To test the sharpness of cutting edges

To inspect for small pieces of bioburden or debris (correct)

To check for completeness of device sets

What should be done with devices that are damaged, incomplete, or malfunctioning?

Report them immediately to the supervisor (correct)

Clean them again in the washer-disinfector

Use them for a different surgical procedure

Place them in a separate device set

What is the purpose of checking cannulated devices?

To ensure the channel is patent (clear) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to inspect devices with an outer insulation coating?

To ensure the insulation remains intact to prevent burn risk Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for making a visual inspection of the load before re-processing?

To check for staining or residue Signup and view all the answers

What happens to items that have excessive wetness after manual cleaning and disinfection?

They are sent back for re-processing Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to disassemble devices before cleaning?

To ensure adequate cleaning occurs Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with devices that have visible soil or staining after manual cleaning and disinfection?

They are rejected and sent back for re-processing Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documenting manually cleaned items and nonconformances?

To report to the line manager and maintain quality control Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of checking the edges of clamping RMD during quality control?

To verify the absence of overlap Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using a computerized track and trace system in the CSSD?

To increase the accuracy of device tracking Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to check screws on jointed RMD for tightness during the cleaning process?

To prevent loosening during cleaning Signup and view all the answers

What is generated when a barcode label is scanned by the specialist preparing the tray?

A packing list and a unique barcode label Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a new processing cycle begins in a computerized track and trace system?

A new unique unit number is produced each time Signup and view all the answers

When arranging devices in a tray, what is the primary consideration?

The order of use in the procedure Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for holding forceps together to prevent tangling?

Placing them on instrument pins Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked against the checklist for a specific surgical instrument tray?

All contents of the tray and their arrangement Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with devices that require special sterilization methods?

Follow the manufacturer's IFU Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with forceps with ratchets after sterilization?

Leave them open if possible Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Device Inspection

Ensure free movement of device parts and no sticking joints; use water-based lubricant if needed.
Check clamping RMD edges for overlap and confirm proper meshing of teeth.
Tighten all screws on jointed RMDs, as they may loosen during cleaning.

Assembly and Tracking Systems

Inspect and function-test devices before assembling into trays.
Many CSSDs adopt computerized track and trace systems for accurate tracking of devices and trays.
Track and trace typically involves handheld barcode readers connected to PCs to log each tray's information.
Scanning barcode labels generates packing lists and unique labels for each tray.

Inspection and Cleaning Protocols

Unload surgical devices from the washer-disinfector and inspect for cleanliness, stains, corrosion, and functional integrity.
Conduct critical inspections on RMDs for cleanliness, focusing on joints, serrations, and crevices.
Ensure movable parts like hinges and jaws function smoothly and check for alignment and closure of ratchets.
Inspect cannulated devices for patent channels and test telescopes and light cables per manufacturer instructions.

Quality Checks for Manually Cleaned Devices

Reject items with visible soil or staining; items must be dry before entering IAP room.
Report damaged items immediately; ensure devices are correctly disassembled for adequate cleaning.
Document any nonconformities and rejected items using a pre-printed tray checklist and manual label gun.

Assembly of Surgical Instrument Trays

Arrange items from left to right based on procedure usage; scalpel handles on the left, needle holders on the right.
Consider size and surgeon/nurse preferences while ensuring an accurate checklist is followed for consistency.
Verify all contents against the checklist to avoid errors.
Use instrument pins or forceps to secure forceps together and reduce tangling.
Follow manufacturer instructions for sterilization and assembly, ensuring all surfaces are exposed to sterilants and maintain forceps with ratchets open.

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Description

Inspection and function testing of surgical devices after sterilization, including checks for cleanliness, stains, corrosion, and damage.