Take a look at our selection of autoclaves, including Enigma Autoclaves, Prestige Autoclaves and Eschmann Little Sister Autoclaves.
The type of load that is to be sterilised depends on the type of autoclave being employed and chosen.
Once it has been determined that the type of load is suitable for the autoclave being used and the instruments have been cleaned, it is necessary to determine the most appropriate form of packaging.
If the instruments are to be used immediately after sterilisation they can be placed directly onto the appropriate autoclave tray without any form of packaging.
However, if instruments are going to be stored for use at a future time the use of appropriate packaging will help to maintain the integrity of the sterilised items.
Only use sterilisation packing materials, such as bags, sheets or pouches that are suitable for use within your autoclave. A process indicator should be included to advise the user that the instruments have been through a successful sterilisation process.
There are two approved techniques for packing items:
• Wrapping in sheets of sterilising paper
• Using sterilization pouches
Single sheets of sterilisation paper are suitable for wrapping sets of instruments
For single instruments, the most convenient method is a sterilisation bag or clear-fronted pouch, which are available in a wide range of sizes. Alternatively, these can be purchased on a reel, allowing the user to cut off appropriate lengths prior to use.
Both types incorporate a process indicator. Two types of sterilisation bags can be
Used, utilising different closure methods such as plain and heat or self seal.
The packing technique for both is the same and instruments such as scalpels that have sharp edges or points can be protected with vented covers or loosely fitting hoods to prevent puncturing the bag whilst still allowing the steam to reach all areas of the item.
When choosing a bag ensure that you select one that gives plenty of room around the contents, helping the user to remove the sterile instruments.
Here are top tips for ensuring safe preparation of instruments:
• The packaging being used should be folded around the contents as tightly as possible to reduce the amount of trapped air
• The parcel/bag should be secured with process indicator tape
• The parcel/bag should be labelled for identification and traceability
• The parcel/bag should be labelled with the date it was packed
• The parcel/bag should be labelled with the contents specified