Sterilisation Flashcards
Define sterilisation
removal of pathogenic micro-organisms; spores forming bacteria
bacilli
What are the functions of sterilisation?
destroys all micro-organisms
sterile manner
NO LIVING AFTER
What are the 2 types of sterilisation?
chemical and physical
Types of Chemical Sterilisation?
glutaraldehyde
irradiation
chemical
COLD
Types of Physical Sterilisation?
dry- hot air oven
moist- autoclave
HEAT
Does boiling water maintained at 100’C kill bacteria?
Nopeee
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Basic Hot Air Ovens?
+
ideal for glassware, drill bits, powder and oil
economical running cost
- restricted as not many articles can withstand heat; fabrics, plastic
longer time
limited capacity
instruments need a cool down period
What type of sterilsation is an autoclave?
Physical, moist heat
How does an autoclave work?
a combination of pressure, heat and moisture over time
What is the standard pressure of moist heat sterilisation?
15 pounds per sq” at 121’C-15 mins
What degree does water boil to create steam?
100’C- constant heating, no raise temperature further
bacteria can survive at this heat
What happens when pressure is increased?
steam temperature increases
Does temperature or pressure kill micro-organisms?
temperature
What are the autoclave risk factors?
annual testing
above 50% newly tested- vacuum assisted vessels, capable of implosion, risks scalding/ dry burns
PAT
safety features inbuilt
List some suitable materials for moist heat sterilisation…
gowns
drapes
instruments
swabs
glass
What cannot be put in an autoclave?
endoscopes
plastics
powders/ oils
What are the autoclave temperatures, pressure and time combinations
121-15-15mins
126-20-10mins
134-30-3-3.5mins
Holding time-
15-45mins
What are the loading autoclave considerations?
correctly- successful circulation
place plastic side down
one layer
instruments- grease free
