Chapter 21 instrument and sterilization

autoclave

equipment for sterilization by means of moist heat under pressure

biologic indicators

vials or strips also known as spore tests that contain harmless bacterial spores used to determine weather sterilization has occurred

biological monitoring

verifies sterilization by confirming that all spore forming microorganisms have been destroyed

clean area

a place where sterilized instruments, fresh disposable supplies, and prepared trays are stored.

contaminated area

place where contaminated items are brought for precleaning

critical instruments

items used to penetrate soft tissue or bone

dry heat sterilizer

equipment for sterilization by means of heated air

endospores

resistant dormant structure formed inside of some bacteria that can withstand adverse conditions

event related packaging

in occurrence causing a sterile packaging to become contaminated; torn or wet packaging

multiparameter indicators

strips placed in packages that change color when exposed to a combination of heat, temp, and time, also known as process integrators

non critical instruments

item that comes in contact with in tact skin only.

process indicators

tapes, strips, or tabs with heat sensitive chemicals that change color when exposed to a certain temp.

process integrators

strips placed in packages that change color when exposed to a combination of heat, temp, and time

semi critical instrument

item that comes in contact with oral tissue but does not penetrate soft tissue or bone

single parameter indicators

tapes, strips, or tabs with heat sensitive chemicals that change color when exposed to a particular temp, also known as a process indicator

ultrasonic cleaner

equipment that loosens and removes debris by sound waves traveling through a liquid.

wicking

process of microorganisms being drawn through wet or damp paper packaging contaminating the instruments inside