Chapters 13 & 14 IUSS & Steam Sterilization Vocabulary Flashcards

A complete list of vocabulary flashcards covering key definitions, recommendations, and components for Chapters 13 and 14.

Immediate Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS)

process designed for the cleaning steam sterilization and immediate delivery of heat resistant items or use in the procedure room

Point-of-Use Disinfection and Sterilization Process

The cleaning and preparation of a contaminated device as soon as possible after use, before the item is transported for further processing.

IUSS Transport Process

The process of transporting a sterilized item immediately in a closed or covered, leak-resistant container that protects staff and the environment from contamination.

AORN and TJC Recommendations for IUSS

Guidelines stating that IUSS should not be used for convenience or as a routine method, but only when necessary and according to facility policy, manufacturer instructions, and accepted standards.

Terminal Sterilization

The normal sterilization process in which an item is cleaned, packaged, sterilized, cooled, stored, and made available for later use.

IUSS Documentation Process

Record-keeping that identifies the item, sterilizer and cycle information, reason for IUSS, patient or procedure when required, and required monitoring results to provide traceability.

Bioburden

The number and type of living microorganisms present on an object before sterilization.

Phases of a Terminal Steam Sterilizer Cycle

exposure/sterilization, and exhaust/drying.

Coolest Area in a Steam Sterilizer

The area around the chamber drain where condensate and residual air collect.

Air-Removal Test

A test used to check whether a dynamic-air-removal steam sterilizer is effectively removing air and allowing steam to penetrate the test pack.

Wet Packs

Moisture-retaining packages caused by incorrect loading, excessive condensate, inadequate drying, overloading, cold instruments, steam-quality problems, or sterilizer/drain problems.

Jacket

The space surrounding the sterilizer chamber that is heated with steam to help keep the chamber at the proper temperature.

Gasket

pible strip on sterilization containers that seals the lid and container to prevent entry of microorganisms

Chamber Drain

The drain where air and condensate leave the sterilizer chamber.

Thermostatic Trap

A device that allows condensate and air to leave while helping prevent steam from escaping.

Charts and Printouts

Records of the sterilizer cycle, including information such as time, temperature, pressure, and cycle phases.

Gravity (Steam Sterilization)

A steam sterilization method in which gravity helps remove air from the chamber as steam enters.

Contact

When steam physically touches the surfaces of the item being sterilized.

Exposure

The period during which the load is held at the required sterilization temperature for the required time.

Dry

The phase after exposure when moisture is removed from the load.

Condensate

Water that forms when steam cools and changes back into liquid water.