HSPA Chapter 7: Decontamination, Point-of-Use & Transport

Gross soil

Tissue, body fat, blood, and other organic substances on instruments after use.

Biohazard signage

Visual alerts identifying materials or areas containing infectious agents or biological risks.

Biofilm

A collection of microorganisms that attach to surfaces and form a protective gel-like barrier.

Sharps

Instruments or devices that can cut or puncture skin, such as needles and scalpels.

Turnover

The cycle of cleaning, sterilizing, and returning instruments to service for the next procedure.

5 goals of point-of-use treatment and transport

Prevent drying soil, prevent biofilm, protect staff, prolong instrument life, and increase turnover.

Why is it important to prevent biofilm during point-of-use?

Once formed, biofilm is extremely difficult to remove and protects bacteria from disinfectants.

Workplace injuries avoided by applying ergonomic principles

Back pain, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and bone fractures.

First step in the decontamination process

Point-of-use preparation.

Why saline should not be used to moisten instruments

The chloride in saline causes rapid pitting, rusting, and corrosion of stainless steel.

Point-of-use preparation for multi-part instruments

Disassemble them to ensure all internal and external surfaces can be cleaned.

Method to keep instruments moist during transport

Apply an enzymatic foam, gel, or place a damp towel over them.

Placement of heavy vs. delicate instruments in transport containers

Place heavy instruments at the bottom and delicate instruments on top.

Requirement for transport carts or containers carrying contaminated items

Must be closed, leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and marked with a biohazard label.

Who is responsible for point-of-use preparation?

The professional user or clinical staff in the department where the procedure occurred.

When should point-of-use preparation begin?

Immediately after the completion of the surgical or medical procedure.