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Table B: Standard Recommendations for Flash Sterilization |
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CHARACTERISTICS OF ITEM(S) TO BE STERILIZED |
GRAVITY |
VACCUME |
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Nonporous |
3 minutes @270°F (132°C) with no weight restrictions, load size restrictions, or density restrictions Instruments must be properly decontaminated. |
3 minutes @270°F with no weight restrictions, load size restrictions, or density restrictions. Instruments must be properly decontaminated |
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Porous |
10 minutes @270°F with no weight restrictions, load size restrictions, or density restrictions. Instruments must be properly decontaminated |
4 minutes @270°F with no weight restrictions, load size restrictions, or density restrictions. Instruments must be properly decontaminated |
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Complex Instrumentation |
Please see Table D. Comply with manufacturer’s recommendations. Observe not only the sterilization parameters, but also adhere to drying recommendations and cool down protocols to prevent instrument damage. Never immerse, wrap in a moist towel, or run a hot power instrument in an attempt to cool it down. This will lead to premature ware to motor and bearings. |
Generally a much shorter cycle. Please see Table D. Comply with manufacturer’s recommendations. Observe not only the sterilization parameters, but also adhere to drying recommendations and cool down protocols to prevent instrument damage. Never immerse, wrap in a moist towel, or run a hot power instrument in an attempt to cool it down. This will lead to premature ware of motor and bearings. |
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Implants |
Not Recommended. If necessary, use a 10 minute cycle @ 270° F. You must run a biological indicator with the implant and report any adverse readings to the surgeon and infection control. |
Not Recommended. If necessary, use a 4 minute cycle @ 270° F. You must run a biological indicator with the implant and report any adverse readings to the surgeon and infection control. |
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Record Keeping for Flash Sterilization. |
Document the following for each cycle 1. The patient’s name or hospital ID 2. The load contents 3. The type and identification # of the autoclave 4. The parameters of the cycle used: 5. The date and time of the cycle 6. Results of any internal chemical or biological indicators. |
Document the following for each cycle 1. The patient’s name or hospital ID 2. The load contents 3. The type and identification # of the autoclave 4. The parameters of the cycle used: 5. The date and time of the cycle 6. Results of any internal chemical or biological indicators. |
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