1 - A Short History of Cleaning and Sterilisation

Question 1

what is the order of processes for dental equipment to be cleaned & sterilised?

Answer 1

Cleaning + Disinfection (Visual debris and matter)

Inspect (any leftover matter)

Packaging -> Sterilisation

Transport -> Storage

Use -> Transport back to restart

Question 2

why should instruments be cleaned and made sure no debris is on them prior to sterilisation?

Answer 2

• allow full functionality of instrumentation (nothing impairing the use of the instrument)
• minimise spread of contamination
• so the steam (sterilisation) can make contact to ALL surfaces (under any biological matter)

Question 3

what is the main way washing & disinfectant is achieved in most dental practices & hospitals?

Answer 3

using a washer-disinfector machine

backup - ultrasonic bath

manual cleaning - should be carried out as a last resort

Question 4

what are the 2 types of sterilisation machines?

Answer 4

vacuum & non-vacuum machines

Vacuum is the better process