Spaulding's classification system Flashcards
List three reasons why Earle H Spaulding proposed a classification method?
To make sure surfaces and instruments were free of microbes
To make it easier to decide what level of processing is needed
To reduce infection rates
Who developed the Spaulding Classification System, and when was it first proposed?
Earle H Spaulding
1939
Describe the infection risk and required reprocessing method for critical devices
Critical, requires steam/heat sterilisation, RMD is presented sterile at use
What types of tissues or systems do critical devices come into contact with?
vascular systems and sterile tissues (blood, bones, internal organs, muscles, joints, CNS-systems normally free from microbes)
What reprocessing method is preferred for semi-critical devices, and why might alternatives be used?
sterilisation is preferred (heat/steam), but high level disinfection
Give an example of a semi-critical device and explain why it falls into this category.
endoscope because it comes into contact with mucous membranes and non intact skin
What defines a non-critical device, and what level of reprocessing is generally required?
Non-critical devices contact only intact skin and pose a low infection risk. They require cleaning and low to intermediate level disinfection.
Give two examples of non-critical devices commonly found in healthcare settings:
Stethoscope and blood pressure cuffs
Why is it important to assess each reusable medical device (RMD) individually, even when using the Spaulding system?
Because device design, use, and material compatibility can vary, so each item may require a tailored reprocessing approach to ensure safety and effectiveness.
List the three categories in the Spaulding Classification System and briefly describe the infection risk, reprocessing requirements, and give an example of a device for each category.
- Critical:
Infection Risk: High risk of infection.
Reprocessing: Requires sterilisation (typically using heat or steam).
Example: Surgical instruments, implants, intravenous catheters.
- Semi-Critical:
Infection Risk: Lower risk of infection.
Reprocessing: Sterilisation is preferred; if not possible, high-level disinfection or low-temperature sterilisation may be used.
Example: Endoscopes, respiratory equipment.
- Non-Critical:
Infection Risk: Low risk of infection.
Reprocessing: Requires cleaning and low to intermediate-level disinfection.
Example: Stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, dental bib chains.
Why must manufacturer’s guidelines always be followed when cleaning and disinfecting reusable medical devices?
To ensure the device is processed safely and effectively without damage, and to maintain compliance with infection prevention and control standards.
In what decade did Spaulding’s classification get adopted?
1950
What does the term “terminally sterilised mean?”
Sterilising the RMD . (autoclave)
What type of procedures are RMD used for when they are classified semi-critical?
Non-invasive and only contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin
What level of risk of infection is associated with non-critical devices?
Non-critical risk
If a set has a mixture of critical and semi-critical devices on it what classification is the tray given and how is it presented for reuse?
Critical and presented terminally sterilised
When possible, what is the preferred level of processing for semi-critical RMD?
Sterilisation with moist heat or low temperature alternatives
