dirty to sterile Flashcards
Operator
the person with the autority to operate decontamination equipment, this includes noting instrument readings, replenishment of detergent solutions and simple housekeeping duties (ensuring equipment is cleaned and ready to be used)
user
defined as the person responsible for the day-to-day management of the equipment
in an LDU it may also be the dental practitioner, a senior dental nurse or practice manager
main responsibilities of the USER (6)
- to certify the equipment is fit for use
- to hold all documentation relating to decontamination equipment; including names of other key personnel - such as Authorising Engineer
- to appoint operators where required and ensure they are adequately trained and maintain records of training
- to maintain sufficien records of decontamination equipment procedures
- to establish procedures for parametric release (ensure tha instruments have been sterilised)
Manager
defined as the person who is ultimately accountable for the operation of the LDU
usually dental practitioner
decontamination
is the combination of processes (including washing, disinfection and sterilisation) employed to make re-usable items safe for handling by users and for use on pts
role of LDU
Local decontamination unit within a dental practice
to decontaminate reusable medical devices
decontamination cycle/ lifecyle of RMD
sinner circle
chemicals
temperature
energy
time
policy
an overall statement of intent or is a set of rules or requirements to be followed to achieve a given process/outcome
procedure
guidelines of major methods to be used to meet the policies as defined by the company/practice
tell you WHO does WHAT and WHEN
- who - department, staff member or grade (dental nurse/ practice manager)
- when - what sequence
objective
landmark event in pursuit of overall intent (usually subject to regular review and amendment)
work instruction
specific steps needed to carry out the procedures
HOW to do something
work flow
dirty to clean. Linear flow
clean, inspect, package, sterilisation
3 pieces of legislation realted to LDU running
- health and safety at work act
- consumer protection act
- medical device directive
what to do on entering and leaving LDU
hand hygiene
non immersion manual washing
approproriate for certain equipment where items will become compromised by soaking in aqueous solution e.g. electrical and electronic equipment
these items should be cleaned in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
immersion manual washing
most instruments - see manufacturer’s instructions
wash temperature is of particular importance when using enzymatic detergents - follow manufacturer’s instructions
2 types of manual washing
immersive
non-immersive
when to be particularly mindful of wash temperaure
when using an enzymatic detergent