Sterilisation Flashcards
What is pasteurisation & how does it help in veterinary environment?
Definition: process that uses mild heat to reduce microbial load while preserving integrity of products.
(<140 degrees for ~30 mins)
Application: Useful for preserving veterinary products & ensuring they remain safe for use without compromising their quality.
What are some limitations of pasteurisation?
Not effective against spore creating bacteria
Long time before things are cool enough to use
Only certain items can be put in machine
Risk of fire
What are the forms of sterilisation?
Chemical
Gas
Heat
How does an autoclave work?
heat, steam and pressure
What types of autoclaves are there?
What temps, pressure and times are required for effective sterilisation?
What is sterilisation?
process of eliminating all forms of microbial life, including spores.
Describe chemical sterilisation
AKA cold sterilisation
Not very effective (more considered disinfection)
Mainly liquid forms
Some liquids can be problem when placed in body
Describe gas sterilisation
Uses ethylene oxide to inactivate DNA
Very effective
Highly toxic, requires COSHH controls, training & specific equipment
Sterilization cycles are 12–24 hours & can’t be interrupted
Suitable for non-autoclavable items like endoscopes
All gas must be evacuated prior to use of equipment
What is the importance of preparation before sterilising surgical equipment?
Instruments must be thoroughly cleaned & checked for damage
Lubrication required to ensure functionality after sterilization.
What are the best practices for packing surgical instruments for sterilization?
Instruments should be packed to be ready for use & storable.
Proper labeling essential:
- date, initials, contents of pack
What are the methods used for monitoring surgical equipment sterilisation?
Bowie Dick tape: Tests temperature only
TST strips: Monitors time, steam & temperature
Browns tubes: Rarely used
What are the recommended storage times for sterilized items?
Autoclaved items: 1 year.
Gas-sterilized items: 2 years.
