Sterilize Medical Equipment
Datetime:2014-11-12 Hits:
Proper sterilization of medical equipment is an important step in ensuring that patients and doctors alike are protected from various diseases and infections. Dirty equipment transmits dangerous germs and infectious bacteria that can cause serious health problems for those exposed to them. While the sterilization process may seem extremely difficult, it is actually quite simple with proper instructions.
Instructions
1
Put on rubber gloves, goggles, a plastic apron and a mask covering your nose and mouth. Place the medical equipment into the sink inside a wire basket and soak them with regular tap water. Allow the instruments to soak for three to five minutes.
2
Use a smooth brush to thoroughly scrub each of the medical instruments with detergent and water. Submerge the instruments underneath the surface of the water to avoid splashing the contaminated water. If an item has multiple parts, disassemble them and clean each part on its own.
3
Rinse each of the items thoroughly to get rid of any excess detergent. Thoroughly examine each instrument to make sure each is completely clean. Use a clean cloth to dry off each item. If a cloth is unavailable, set the items down on a paper towel and allow them to air-dry. Place a pot of water onto a hot surface and bring it to a boil.
4
Submerge each of the instruments in a glutaraldehyde disinfectant solution. If you have any bowls or containers, set them upright (not upside down) to allow the solution to sit inside during the cleaning process. Close the container and allow the instruments to sit for approximately 20 minutes.
5
Use forceps to carefully remove each item and rinse each one thoroughly with boiled water. The boiling process removes any excess chemicals that may remain on the instruments. Allow items to air-dry on a disinfected tray before using them.
