SECUROS Instrumentation Care Guide

Immediately after surgery, remove any organic materials by rinsing instruments under warm (not hot) running water. This should remove most blood, fluids and tissue. Remember to process only similar metals (stainless, copper, chrome plated, etc) together.

To protect medical personnel from contamination during cleaning, immerse instruments in an EPA approved disinfectant for 10 minutes then rinse.

All blood, dried body fluids and tissue should be completely removed from the instruments prior to sterilization. Some of the methods available are:

• A. Soak: An enzymatic cleaner bath or a solution of water and neutral pH detergent are effective in removing organic material from instruments. Instruments should be fully submerged for for at least 10 minutes and then rinsed under running water.
  
  
• B. Ultrasonic Cleaning: On eof the most effective ways to clean surgical instruments, especially those those with hinges, locks and moving parts. Some tips on Ultrasonic Cleaning:
  
  
• All instruments must be fully submerged. Keep sharp items from touching other items.
• Change solution frequently. Daily changing may be necessary.
• Rinse instruments with water to remove cleaning solution.
• Lubricate all hinged instruments which have any "metal to metal" action (hinges, etc).

Instruments will need to be lubricated in the joints and hinges. A non-silicone, water-soluble surgical lubricant is best. This maintains smooth operation of moving parts.

Autoclaving is considered the best method of sterilization. For best results, preheat the autoclave and insure instruments are in an open position allowing steam to reach all metal surfaces. If the autoclave door is opened prior to the drying process, cold air will condense on the metal causing stains and spotting. Ensure the instruments are dried thoroughly before storage.

• Clean and sterilize all instruments in open position. Needle holders and forceps may crack if sterilized with ratchet in closed position.
• Never use an excessive amount of detergent - DO NOT USE BLEACH - it is corrosive.
• A water-soluble, non-oil based, rust inhibiting lubricant should be used.
• Towels used during autoclaving should be free from bleach and detergent residue.