Section III. PROCESSING - STERILIZATION TO STORAGE
3-11. STERILIZATION
a. General. The steps in processing reusable articles through CMS begin with
collecting and receiving; move to sorting, decontaminating, and cleaning; then to
sorting, inspecting, and testing; next to assembling and packaging. All of these steps
were in preparation for sterilization. The processes of sterilization are covered in this
section.
b. Preparation of the Sterilizer. The effectiveness of the sterilization
processes depends upon a properly functioning and clean sterilizer.
(1)
Daily maintenance of the sterilizer.
(a) Remove lint and debris from chamber wall.
(b) Remove, clean, and replace filter to the chamber discharge line in
all autoclaves.
(c)
Change recording chart, check ink supply, and close cover.
(2) Periodic maintenance of the sterilizer. Medical maintenance should
check the sterilizers on a regular basis for:
(a) Proper operation of mechanical parts such as the gauges, steam
lines, and drains.
(b) Accuracy of the temperature, humidity, and vacuum independently
of the fixed gauge.
3-12. STEAM STERILIZATION
In the conventional steam sterilizer the sterilization process has five phases.
a. Phase 1. Phase one is the loading phase in which articles are packaged and
loaded into the sterilizer.
b. Phase 2. Phase two is the heating phase in which air is removed from the
chamber as the steam heats up in the jacket and begins to enter the chamber. This air
is removed either with a vacuum pump or by gravity displacement. Only after the air is
removed from the chamber and from the packages of items being sterilized can proper
sterilization occur.
c. Phase 3. Phase three is the destruction phase. The destruction phase is
based on the time-temperature cycle necessary to kill all microbial life. Table 3-1
MD0937
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