Decontamination Flashcards
Who is the user?
The person responsible for the day-to-day management of the equipment. In an LDU this may also be the dental practitioner, a senior dental nurse or practice manager.
What are the main responsibilities of the user?
To certify that the equipment is fit for use.
To hold all documentation relating to decontamination equipment (including the names of all other key personnel).
To ensure that the equipment is subject to periodic testing and maintenance.
To appoint operators where required and ensure they are adequately trained.
To maintain records.
To establish procedures for product release (ensure that instruments have been sterilised).
Who is the manager?
The person who is ultimately accountable for the operation of the LDU. This is usually the dental practitioner.
What is decontamination?
The combination of processes (including washing, disinfection & sterilisation) employed to make re-usable items safe for handling by users and for use on patients.
Who is the operator?
The person with the authority to operate decontamination equipment, this includes noting instrument readings, replenishment of detergent solutions and simple housekeeping duties (cleaning etc.).
What are the stages of the life-cycle of re-usable surgical instruments?
Acquisition (purchase or loan) Cleaning Disinfection Inspection -> Disposal (scrap or return) Packaging Sterilisation Transport Storage Use Transport
What is required at all stages of the life-cycle of reusable instruments?
Location Facilities Equipment Management Policies/procedures
What are the four components of the Sinner circle?
Chemicals
Temperature
Energy
Time
What is a policy?
An overall statement of intent or a set of rules/requirements to be followed to achieve a given process/outcome.
What are work instructions?
Specific steps needed to carry out the procedures.
They tell you how to do something.
What type of PPE should be used for manual washing?
Face mask, gown and marigold type gloves.
What legislation is in place for decontamination?
Health and safety at work act
Consumer protection act
Medical device directive
What are the two types of manual washing?
Non Immersion
Immersion
When is non immersion manual washing used?
Used for certain equipment where items will become compromised by soaking in an aqueous solution e.g. Electrical and electronic equipment
What is the water temperature in manual washing?
30-35 degrees C
