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Spring cleaning: Surgical instrument care self-assessment

By Securos Surgical

Surgical instruments are an important investment for every veterinary clinic. Spring is a great time to review your instrument care protocols, assess your current instrument inventory and inspect your surgical instruments to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward in the surgical suite.
Cluttered surgical instrument trays

Daily cleaning best practices to follow


▢ An ultrasonic cleaner is utilized when possible.

▢ Bio-burdens are never allowed to dry on surgical instruments.

▢ Instruments are never allowed to soak in liquid for more than 10-20 minutes.

▢ Instrument cleaning solution is diluted and changed according to manufacturer’s instructions.

▢ All surgical instruments are inspected after each cleaning for cleanliness, proper functionality, corrosion and staining.

▢ Instruments that do not pass inspection are removed and replaced immediately.

Surgical instrument sterilization machine and trays 
Gloved hands cleaning surgical instruments 

Bi-annual check list


▢ A comprehensive cleaning protocol is in place and posted in a location for all staff members to view.

▢ Instruments are serviced by a reputable instrument repair facility on at least a bi-annual basis.

▢ Cleaning and sterilization equipment (ultrasonic cleaner, auto-washer, and autoclave) are inspected and serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

▢ There are ample sterile surgical packs available to meet the volume of surgery and a new pack is opened for each patient.

 

Did you know?

Securos Surgical offers a full line of surgical instrument cleaners. Email SecurosSales@mwiah.com or call 877.266.3349 for details on the Securos Surgical instrument cleaners and instrument cleaning protocol.

Repairs

Securos recommends a bi-annual servicing of your instrumentation to keep them in top performance shape. Contact us at www.securos.com/repairs or call 877.266.43349 option #2 for more information on our repair services.


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