AAMI ST33 pdf free download

AAMI ST33 pdf free download.Guidelines for the selection and use of reusable rigid container systems for ethylene oxide sterilization and steam sterilization in health care facilities.
3 Cleaning and decontamination 3.1 General rationale Reduction of bioburden is essential for sterilization. The cleaning and decontamination of rigid sterilization container systems is as important as the cleaning and decontamination of the soiled/ contaminated contents. 3.2 Transfer of contaminated items to the decontamination area If the manufacturer’s written instructions permit, closed sterilization container systems (with solid bottoms or with filters in place, if applicable) can be used for containment and transport of contaminated instruments and medical devices to a decontamination area, where cleaning procedures can best be performed. Contaminated items should be handled as little as possible. Gloves should be worn when placing the contaminated items into the container. Care should be taken to avoid touching the outer surfaces of the container with gloved, soiled hands. Rationale: Some manufacturers instruct users not to use the same container system for transport of contaminated items as for sterilization, so it is important to consult the labeling. Contaminated items harbor microorganisms that can cause infection in susceptible individuals; gloves provide a barrier to direct contact with contaminated items. If the outer surfaces of the container are touched with gloved, soiled hands, then the entire container is considered contaminated.3.3 Disassembly 3.3.1 Removable filters When using container systems with removable filters, the filter protectors or holders (retention plates) should be removed or released to disengage the filter media. If disposable, the entire filter should be disposed of according to the policies and procedures of the health care institution. Removable, reusable filters should be disassembled, cleaned, and replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Rationale: Filters, by their nature, can be reservoirs of contamination, especially when the container is used to collect or transport used instruments. A disposable filter might not maintain its barrier effectiveness for more than one cycle, and reuse could result in improper sterilization or contamination of the container contents. 3.3.2 Valves If the container system is provided with valve-type closures, the manufacturer’s instructions for frequency and method of removal, disassembly, and cleaning should be followed. Rationale: Improperly maintained valves can interfere with sterilant penetration or allow microbial contamination of container contents. 3.3.3 Interior baskets The interior basket always should be removed from the container for decontamination. Depending on the type of basket and instrument set, the user might need to remove the instruments from the basket before proceeding with the cleaning and decontamination process. In most cases, the interior basket can be processed with the instruments in the basket according to the institution’s usual routine. Rationale: Separation of the basket from the container allows for effective decontamination. The interior basket functions as a tray, much like the mesh-bottomed pan used in a conventionally wrapped set.3.3.4 Labeling Reusable identification labels may be affixed to container systems. Depending on the institution’s procedure, the user might need to remove the labeling prior to further processing. If a particular container always is used for the same set of instruments, it could be important to keep the label with the container. Rationale: Labeling enables the identification of container contents. 3.3.5 Process indicators, disposable labels, and disposable locks Process indicators, disposable labels, and disposable locks should be removed prior to any cleaning of the container system. Rationale: The presence of process indicators or fragments of disposable labels or locking mechanisms on the surface of the container system impedes cleaning, decontamination, and the proper functioning of mechanical processing equipment.AAMI ST33 pdf download.