Chapter 7: Point of Use, Treatment, and Transportation

What are the 6 main goals of point-of-use treatment

Remove gross soil, prevent damage, prevent cross-contamination, maintain timelines, keep people safe, hold items safely until return to SP.

Why must gross soil be removed right away?

If left on instruments, it dries, is hard to clean, and can cause damage.

What is biofilm?

A colony of microorganisms attached to surfaces that are hard to disinfect.

How does biofilm form?

From soil or moisture left on instruments.

Why is blood and saline harmful to instruments?

They break down protective finishes and shorten instrument lifespan.

Does point-of-use treatment replace cleaning?

No, it prepares instruments for cleaning.

 Who must be trained in POU treatment?

All individuals performing it.

What PPE should be used during point-of-use treatment?

Gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection.

What should be done with sharps?

 Place them in a puncture-proof container.

What should be done with delicate instruments?

Separate them from heavier instruments to prevent damage

What should be done with hinged instruments before transport?

Open and disassemble them, then place them in trays together.

 How can drying of soil on instruments be prevented?

Use gels or sprays to keep instruments moist

 What should be done with fluids in containers?

Empty them before transport.

What should you do with third-party items?

Remove and separate them properly

What should be done if instruments were used on a CJD patient?

 Notify SP and infection control immediately.

What does “turnover/turnaround” mean?

Instruments needed quickly for another surgery, requiring priority processing.

Why must contaminated items be contained before transport?

To prevent airborne spread of microorganisms.

What are the requirements for open transport carts?

Must have a solid bottom shelf and be covered during transport.

 How should small instruments be transported?

In biohazard-marked containers or bags.

Can sterile and soiled instruments be in the same cart?

No, never

What must be worn while loading soiled items?

PPE

What should be done after the cart is loaded?

Remove PPE and wash hands.

 Can carts with soiled items be left unattended?

No, never

How must soiled items be transported off-site?

By approved truck or van following DOT guidelines.

What must be kept separate during transport?

Clean and dirty items

Why is it important to prevent debris from drying during off-site transport?

Dried debris is harder to remove and can damage instruments.

 What are three environmental factors that affect transport safety?

Route/road conditions, temperature, and humidity

 What must be done to transport vehicles after moving soiled items?

Routine cleaning.

What organizations provide guidelines for treatment and transport of soiled instruments?

AAMI, OSHA, AORN