chapter 21 principles and techniques of instrument processing and sterilization

What are the three instrument classifications that are used to determine the method of sterilization?

critical, semi critical ,and non critical

What PPE is necessary when one is processing instruments?

google type I wear gloves, masks, and protective clothing

What is the basic rule of the workflow pattern in an instrument-processing area?

Linear or semicircular without doubling back is the basic rule of work flow patterns

If instruments cannot be processed immediately, what should be done with them?

Place them in a holding solution

Name the three methods of pre-cleaning instruments.

Hand scrubbing, ultrasonic cleaning, or instrument washing machines

Which method of pre-cleaning instruments is the least desirable?

Hand scrubbing

How does an ultrasonic cleaner work?

By creating sound waves that make bubbles in the liquid

What prevents kitchen dishwashers from being used to pre-clean instruments?

kitchen dishwasher cannot be used because they are not FDA approved

How can instrument rusting be prevented?

Lubrication can be used

Why should instruments be packaged before sterilization?

to maintain sterility

Why should you never use pins, staples, or paper clips on instrument packages?

use of pains staples or paperclips on instrument packages can cause holes and instruments will no longer be sterile

What are the most common forms of heat sterilization?

steam, chemical vapor, and dry heat

What is a primary disadvantage of flash sterilization?

the inability to wrap items is a primary disadvantage

What is a major advantage of chemical vapor sterilization?

no rusting of instruments

What are the two types of dry heat sterilization?

Static air and forced air

What is the primary disadvantage of liquid chemical sterilization?

inability to perform biologic monitoring

How should instruments processed in a liquid chemical sterilant be rinsed?

instruments processed in liquid chemical sterilant should be rinsed with sterile water to maintain their sterility

What causes sterilization failure?

If the sterilizing agent does not come in contact with the item for the proper time

What are the three forms of sterilization monitoring?

physical, chemical, and biological

What is a process indicator, and where is it placed?

it is placed on the outside of the pack to show that it has been exposed to heat

What is a process integrator, and where is it placed?

it is place on the inside of the pack to show heat exposure , temperature, and pressure

Do process indicators and integrators ensure that an item is sterile?

no

What is the best way to determine whether sterilization has occurred?

biological monitoring is the best way

How should high-speed handpieces be processed before sterilization?

they should be flashed

What types of heat sterilization are appropriate for high-speed handpieces?

only steam and chemical vapor, and heat sterilization

What does event-related packaging mean?

It means that unless some event occurs to contaminate the contents it is assumed that the contents will remain sterile indefinitely

How should clean supplies and instruments be stored?

enclosed or covered cabinets