AUTOCLAVE Flashcards
______ is a machine that provides a physical method of sterilization by killing bacteria, viruses, and even spores present in the material put inside of the vessel using steam under pressure.
An autoclave
Also called a steam sterilizer that is commonly used in healthcare facilities and industries for various purposes.
It is considered a more effective method of sterilization as it is based on moist heat sterilization.
Autoclave
Autoclave was invented by French Microbiologist _________ with __________ in 1879
Charles Chamberland with Louis Pasteur
first use of autoclave was closely tied to Chamberland’s work with Louis Pasteur on _________ and ____________
germ theory and the development of vaccines
Parts of An Autoclave
- where the items to be sterilized are placed
- designed to withstand high pressure and temperature
Pressure Chamber
Parts of an autoclave
- allows users to set and monitor sterilization parameters such as temperature, pressure, and time
- includes buttons and indicators for easy operation
Control Panel
Parts of an Autoclave
- shows the current pressure inside the chamber, ensuring that it reaches the necessary levels for effective sterilization
Pressure Gauge
Parts of an autoclave
- displays the temperature inside the chamber, helping to monitor and maintain the correct sterilization conditions
Temperature Gauge
Parts of an autoclave
- releases excess pressure to prevent the chamber from becoming over-pressurized, ensuring safe operation
Safety Valve
Parts of an autoclave
- produces steam by heating water, which is then introduced to the chamber to sterilize the items
Steam Generator
Parts of an Autoclave
- Ensures airtight seal when the door is closed, maintaining the high-pressure environment needed for sterilization
Gasket
Parts of an autoclave
- Easy mobility
- Allows the autoclave to be moved between different locations as needed
Wheels
Parts of an autoclave
- Used for monitoring and controlling the sterilization process
Ports and Gauges
Parts of an autoclave
- releases steam at the end of the sterilization cycle
Exhaust/Vent Port
Parts of an autoclave
- removes condensate or water from the chamber
Water Drainage Port
True or False: principle and working of autoclave
Autoclaves works on the principle of moist heat sterilization where steam under pressure is used to sterilize the material present inside the chamber.
True
True or False: principle and working of autoclave
- This principle is employed in an autoclave where the water boils at 121°C at the pressure of 15 psi or 775 mm of Hg.
True
Phases of Autoclave base on its principle: (in correct order)
- Purge phase
- Sterilization phase
- Exhaust phase
Type of Autoclave
- the steam is created inside the chamber via the heating unit, which then moves around the chamber for sterilization.
Gravity displacement type autoclave
Type of Autoclave
- has microprocessor control, indicator light that indicates working status: pressure, time, temperature.
- auto discharge the cool air, and steam discharging automatically after sterilizing
- over temperature and over pressure autoprotection
Vertical Steam Sterilizer
Type of Autoclave
- It has an air and steam discharge tap, pressure gauge, and safety valve. There is an electric immersion heater at the bottom of the chamber.
Pressure cooker type/ Laboratory bench autoclave (N-type)
Type of Autoclave
- In this type of autoclave, the steam is generated in a separate steam generator which is then passed into the autoclave.
Positive pressure displacement type
(B-type)
Type of Autoclave
- This is another type of autoclave that contains both the steam generator as well as a vacuum generator.
Negative pressure displacement type (S-type)
How to use an autoclave:
- Ensure the autoclave is clean and free of previous cycle materials.
- Wear appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment).
- Inspect materials for damage or contamination.
Preparation and Safety
How to use an autoclave:
- Place items to be sterilized inside the chamber, ensuring proper spacing.
- For solutions, loosely cover containers with foil.
- For glassware, loosely cap containers to prevent breakage.
Loading
How to use an autoclave:
- Fill the chamber with a sufficient amount of water.
Add Water
How to use an autoclave:
- Close the lid tightly, ensuring an airtight seal.
Close and Secure
How to use an autoclave:
- Set the valves to maintain the required pressure.
Adjust Safety Valves
How to use an autoclave:
- Allow air to escape through the discharge tube until water bubbles cease.
Vent Air
How to use an autoclave:
- Close the drainage pipe to trap steam.
Seal Chamber
How to use an autoclave:
- Allow steam to reach the desired pressure (usually 15 psi).
Increase Pressure
How to use an autoclave:
- For solutions: Select the “slow exhaust” cycle.
- For glassware: Select the “fast exhaust” cycle.
Select Cycle
How to use an autoclave
- Set the appropriate temperature and time based on the items being sterilized.
- Monitor the sterilization process.
Sterilization
How to use an autoclave
- Maintain pressure for the specified holding time (e.g., 15 minutes)
Holding Period
How to use an autoclave
- Turn off the heater and allow the autoclave to cool until pressure reaches atmospheric levels.
Cool Down
How to use an autoclave
- Open the discharge pipe to let air in.
Vent Air
How to use an autoclave
- Carefully remove sterilized items.
Unload Materials
How to use an autoclave
- Record the sterilization cycle details in a log.
Documentation
How to use an autoclave
- Autoclave Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean the autoclave to ensure proper functioning.
- Documentation: Maintain a log of sterilization cycles for record-keeping and quality control.
- Emergency Procedures: Have a plan in place for handling spills, malfunctions, or other emergencies.
General Safety and Maintenance
Maintenance:
- Clean the chamber after each use.
- Drain and refill the water reservoir (if applicable)
- Inspect the door gasket for wear or cracks
Daily Maintenance
Maintenance:
- Clean the chamber with a manufacturer-approved cleaner.
- Inspect and clean tray holders
- Check safety valves for proper function.
Weekly Maintenance
Maintenance:
- Run a diagnostic test.
- Descale the heating elements if needed.
- Inspect for water or steam leaks around the chamber and seals.
Monthly Maintenance
Maintenance:
- Schedule professional servicing for inspection and calibration.
- Replace critical components (gaskets, filters, heating elements)
Annual Maintenance
Maintenance:
- Use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup.
- Follow proper loading procedures to prevent overloading.
- Keep a log of all maintenance and repairs.
Best Practices
Application of Autoclave:
Healthcare
- Sterilization of Medical Instruments
- Sterilizing Surgical Gowns and Drapes
- Waste Management
Application of Autoclave:
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Sterilizing Drug Equipment
- Preparation of Culture Media
- Sterilizing Drug Formulations
True or False: Precautions
- No to waterproof/water-resistant substances
- Only autoclavable bags are to be used
- No to aluminum foils-like materials
True
True or False: Precautions
- Shouldn’t be overcrowded
- Always placed in a secondary container.
- Should not touch the sides or top of the chamber.
True
True or False: Precautions
- Wastes and clean items should be autoclaved separately
- Do not attempt to open the lid when the autoclave is working
- Liquid components should never be autoclaved in sealed containers.
True
True or False: Precautions
- Plastic or polyethylene trays or containers should not be used
- Paper should not be placed directly inside an autoclave
- Liquid inside the containers should only be filled 2/3rd
- Never autoclave flammable, reactive, corrosive, toxic or radioactive materials, household bleach, or paraffin-embedded tissue
True
