CLEANING, DISINFECTION AND STERILIZATION Basic Nursing Care

Cleaning
Cleaning is applicable to various types of object surfaces and is a necessary prerequisite step before disinfection and sterilization. Cleaning primarily refers to the removal of organic matter, inorganic matter, and visible contaminants from object surfaces; in other words, washing away dirt that is visible to the naked eye. Example: Saliva adhering to used auxiliary forceps can be scrubbed away using a stiff-bristled brush. This usually only involves the cleaning level. Although cleaning can remove most bacteria, it cannot completely kill them. Common cleaning methods include: water washing, decontamination using detergents or cleaning agents, mechanical decontamination, and ultrasonic cleaning. Example: The first stage of the three-stage sterilization process applied in the piercing industry (ultrasonic cleaner).
Disinfection
Agents capable of killing microorganisms on transmission media and meeting disinfection requirements are called disinfectants. Disinfection goes a step further than cleaning; its purpose is to kill all harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, except for bacterial spores. Example: When we rinse food residue off a bowl with water, it counts as cleaning, whereas boiling it in hot water falls under the category of disinfection. Common disinfection methods include high-temperature disinfection, liquid chemical disinfection (e.g., alcohol, chlorine-based disinfectants), and gaseous chemical disinfection (e.g., ozone). Example: The second stage of the three-stage sterilization process applied in the piercing industry (UV and ozone disinfection cabinet).
Sterilization
Sterilization represents the highest level of “cleanliness.” Professional sterilization can eliminate all microorganisms on an item, including bacteria and dirt. High-temperature sterilization (e.g., pressurized steam sterilization, dry heat sterilization) and chemical sterilization (e.g., ethylene oxide gas, low-temperature formaldehyde steam) are commonly used methods. Example: The Sterility Assurance Level (SAL) is the probability of a viable microorganism being present on a product unit after sterilization. It is typically expressed as 10⁻⁶, meaning that after sterilization treatment, at most one item out of one million is allowed to have a viable microorganism. Example: The third stage of the three-stage sterilization process applied in the piercing industry (autoclave / high-temperature and high-pressure sterilizer).
Aseptic Principles in the Operating Room
1.Personnel Asepsis — All staff in the operating room (surgeons, nurses, scrub nurses, etc.) must wear sterile surgical gowns, gloves, caps, and masks. Hair, beards, and nails must be kept clean and well-groomed. Direct contact with the surgical site and surgical instruments should be avoided.
2.Item Asepsis — All instruments, surgical tools, medications, and fluids used in the operating room must undergo strict disinfection, sterilization, packaging, and storage to maintain their sterile state and prevent contamination during surgery.
3.Air Asepsis — The air in the operating room should be strictly filtered and purified to maintain a sterile state. Effective ventilation, air circulation, and pressure differential control measures should be implemented to prevent contamination and cross-infection.
4.Procedural Asepsis — Surgical procedures should be performed in a sterile environment to avoid contamination and infection. During surgery, sterile gloves and instruments must be used. Direct contact with the surgical site and the outer surfaces of instruments should be avoided. Aseptic operating protocols must be followed to prevent operational errors and contamination.
Data Source: Baidu Health (Dr. Xu Junhui, Attending Physician, Burn Department, Wuhan Third Hospital — Aseptic Principles in the Operating Room)
Classification of Aseptic Operating Rooms
(Terminology Explanation: Planktonic bacteria count — particles ≥ 0.5 micrometers. Settled bacteria count — viable bacteria that naturally settle and accumulate on object surfaces and the floor.)
Class Primary Use Planktonic Bacteria (per m³) Settled Bacteria (per m³)
Class I Cardiac surgery, organ transplantation ≤ 10 ≤ 5
Class II General surgery, OB/GYN, ophthalmology ≤ 100 ≤ 50
Class III Orthopedics, ENT, dermatology ≤ 1,000 ≤ 500
Class IV Dental, plastic surgery (Top-tier for piercing industry) ≤ 10,000 ≤ 5,000
The construction and maintenance of the above four classes of aseptic operating rooms must adhere to strict standards and regulations to ensure the sterility of the surgical environment and reduce the risk of surgical infections. Meanwhile, medical staff must undergo rigorous handwashing and gowning procedures before entering the operating room to minimize the impact of human factors on the surgical environment.

Methods of Disinfection and Sterilization — Basic Nursing
Physical Disinfection and Sterilization Methods
Physical disinfection and sterilization methods primarily utilize heat to cause coagulation and denaturation of microbial proteins, enzyme inactivation, and alterations to cell membranes and cell walls, ultimately leading to microbial death and achieving the goal of disinfection and sterilization. Thermal disinfection and sterilization are reliable and widely used methods, categorized into dry heat and moist heat methods. Dry heat relies on air for heat conduction, which is relatively slow. Moist heat relies on air and steam for heat conduction, offering faster heat transfer and stronger penetrating power. Compared to dry heat sterilization, moist heat sterilization requires shorter processing times and lower temperatures.
01. Combustion Method
•Principle: Utilizes heat to cause coagulation and denaturation of microbial proteins, enzyme inactivation, and alterations to cell membranes and cell walls, leading to microbial death and achieving sterilization.
•Application: Emergency situations where no other sterilization conditions are available.
•Items must be cleaned and dried before sterilization. Metal instruments can be incinerated over a flame for 20 seconds. Keep away from flammable and explosive materials to ensure safety.
02. Dry Heat Sterilization
•Principle: Utilizes a specialized, sealed oven for sterilization.
•Application: Sterilization of items that are heat-resistant, moisture-sensitive, and impermeable to steam or gas, such as metal and glassware (e.g., 160°C for 2 hours, 170°C for 1 hour, or 180°C for 30 minutes). After sterilization, the cabinet door should only be opened to remove items when the temperature drops below 40°C (alcohol can be used to rapidly cool the chamber).
03. Boiling Disinfection Method
•Principle: One of the earliest and most commonly used household disinfection methods. At one standard atmosphere, the boiling point of water is 100°C. Boiling for 5–10 minutes can kill vegetative bacteria; boiling for 15 minutes can kill most bacterial spores; however, botulinum spores require 3 hours of boiling to be destroyed.
•Application: Preliminary treatment (not sterilization) of metal instruments in household or emergency situations.
04. Pressurized Steam Sterilization
•Principle: The most effective method among thermal disinfection and sterilization techniques, widely used in clinical settings.
•Application: Instruments that can withstand high temperature and high humidity (metal, rubber, glass) (121°C–134°C for 15–30 minutes).
Radiation Disinfection and Sterilization Methods
Radiation disinfection and sterilization methods primarily utilize the germicidal effects of ultraviolet (UV) light or ozone to cause photolysis and denaturation of bacterial proteins, leading to bacterial death.
1. Ultraviolet Disinfection Method
•Principle: UV light is an electromagnetic wave with a wavelength of 100–400nm. UV-C, used for disinfection, has a wavelength of 250–270nm, with 253.7nm being the most effective germicidal wavelength.
•Application: Due to low irradiation energy and weak penetrating power, UV is primarily suitable for disinfecting air, surfaces, and liquids.
•Disinfection Methods:
◦For air disinfection, UV air purifiers are the preferred choice, offering reliable effectiveness and allowing use in occupied rooms. Alternatively, ceiling-mounted UV lamps can be used. These lamps should be positioned 1.8–2.2m above the ground, with an intensity of ≥1.5W/m³, and irradiation should last no less than 30 minutes.
◦For surface disinfection, portable UV surface sterilizers are best used for close-range, mobile irradiation.
2. Ozone Disinfection Method
•Principle: Ozone is a strong oxidizing gas at room temperature and a broad-spectrum germicide. It can kill vegetative bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi, and can also destroy botulinum toxin.
•Application: Primarily used for disinfecting air, water, and surfaces.
•Disinfection Methods:
◦For air disinfection, in a sealed, unoccupied space, an ozone concentration of 20mg/m³ is required for 30 minutes.
◦For surface disinfection, in a sealed space, an ozone concentration of 60mg/m³ is required for 60–120 minutes.
3. UV-Ozone Sterilization Cabinet (Medical UV + Ozone Sterilization Cabinet, Radiation Sterilization)
Chemical Disinfection and Sterilization — Sterilants
Chemical disinfection and sterilization methods cause microbial proteins to coagulate and denature, inactivate enzymatic proteins, or inhibit microbial metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Chemical agents capable of killing microorganisms on transmission media to meet disinfection or sterilization requirements are known as chemical disinfectants.
1. Types of Chemical Disinfectants
1. Sterilants
Chemical agents capable of killing all microorganisms (including bacterial spores) and meeting sterilization requirements. Examples include glutaraldehyde and ethylene oxide. WARNING: Sterilants are hazardous chemical agents. Appropriate personal protection and adequate ventilation are required during actual use.
Monocomponent Glutaraldehyde - Composition: This type typically contains a single ingredient (glutaraldehyde) without other additives. - Usage Method: Immerse cleaned and dried instruments completely in the glutaraldehyde solution. - Processing Time: Disinfection: 60 minutes; Sterilization: 10 hours. - Residual Treatment: After disinfection or sterilization, thoroughly rinse the instruments with sterile distilled water to remove residual glutaraldehyde. - Safety: Due to its single-component nature, it has relatively high safety, but protective measures are still necessary. Avoid skin contact and inhalation. - Protective Measures: Wear rubber gloves and safety goggles during use to prevent splashes into the eyes or inhalation. - Storage: Containers holding glutaraldehyde must be covered and placed in a well-ventilated area. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight. - Precautions: Shake well before use to ensure a uniform solution. Clean instruments promptly after use to avoid residue. - Scope of Application: Due to its single-component nature, monocomponent glutaraldehyde is only suitable for the disinfection of certain specific medical devices. - Advantages: Broad-spectrum and highly efficient bactericidal effect with significant microbial kill rates. Low corrosion to metals and minimal impact from organic matter. Low irritation at working concentrations and relatively high safety. - Disadvantages: Long sterilization time, typically requiring 10 hours. Causes a certain degree of irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.
2% Glutaraldehyde - Composition: This type has a 2% glutaraldehyde concentration and may contain other ingredients, such as sodium bicarbonate or sodium nitrite, to enhance its stability and effectiveness. - Preparation: Add the activator and corrosion inhibitor powders to the glutaraldehyde solution, dissolve completely, and shake well. - Formulation: Consists of 2 grams of glutaraldehyde and 98 grams of distilled water. - Usage Method: Immerse cleaned and dried instruments completely in the glutaraldehyde solution. - Processing Time: Disinfection: 60 minutes; Sterilization: 10 hours. - Residual Treatment: After disinfection or sterilization, thoroughly rinse the instruments with sterile distilled water to remove residual glutaraldehyde. - Safety: Due to the higher concentration, greater caution is required. Ensure operation in a well-ventilated environment and wear appropriate protective equipment. - Protective Measures: Wear safety goggles, a respirator mask, protective clothing, and an apron. Wear rubber gloves during operation. - Storage: Containers holding glutaraldehyde must be covered and placed in a well-ventilated area. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Because it contains enhancers, take care to prevent precipitation and stratification during storage. - Precautions: Add the appropriate amount of sodium bicarbonate or sodium nitrite (activator and corrosion inhibitor powders) before use. Shake well and let it stand for a period to ensure solution stability. Clean instruments promptly after use to ensure no residue remains. - Scope of Application: Due to its higher concentration and potential enhancers, it is commonly used in situations requiring stronger bactericidal effects, such as the sterilization of medical devices. - Advantages: Broad-spectrum and highly efficient bactericidal effect with significant microbial kill rates. Low corrosion to metals and minimal impact from organic matter. Low irritation at working concentrations and relatively high safety. - Disadvantages: Long sterilization time, typically requiring 10 hours. Causes a certain degree of irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.
Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Sterilization ⚠️ ETHYLENE OXIDE HAZARD WARNING - Sterilization Environment: The sterilization workshop must be an independent space with good ventilation and mandatory explosion-proof ventilation systems. Open flames and smoking are strictly prohibited within 50 meters of the sterilizer. Install an ethylene oxide concentration detection and alarm device. - Sterilization Operation: Confirm that the sterilization program and parameter settings are correct, including temperature, humidity, ethylene oxide concentration, and sterilization time. Start the sterilization program; the equipment will automatically inject ethylene oxide gas and sterilize according to the preset parameters. During the process, the operator should regularly monitor the operation. In case of any abnormalities, handle them promptly to prevent accidents. - End of Sterilization: Upon completion, the equipment will automatically exhaust the ethylene oxide gas from the sterilization chamber. The exhaust process may take some time to ensure that the residual ethylene oxide level drops to a safe range. - Item Unloading: Wear personal protective equipment (e.g., masks and gloves) when unloading items. Handle items gently. Unload small instruments with baskets and place boxed instruments on dedicated transport carts. Check physical and chemical monitoring results to confirm whether sterilization is qualified. - Safety: Ethylene oxide can corrode the respiratory tract and is highly harmful to the human body. It can also impair liver and kidney functions and even cause hemolysis. Contact can cause a burning sensation, leading to blistering dermatitis, and long-term exposure is carcinogenic. - Summary: Ethylene oxide sterilization is a chemical sterilization method used exclusively by medical device manufacturers or professional sterilization engineering facilities. Personal use is strictly prohibited.
2. High-Level Disinfectants
Chemical agents capable of killing all vegetative bacteria (including mycobacteria), viruses, fungi, and their spores, with a certain degree of efficacy against bacterial endospores. Examples include hydrogen peroxide and certain chlorine-based disinfectants.
2.1 Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (Commonly Known as Hydrogen Peroxide) The sterilization mechanism primarily relies on its strong oxidizing properties. Under specific conditions, hydrogen peroxide molecules decompose to produce monoatomic oxygen, which possesses extremely strong oxidizing capabilities. It can rapidly react with various substances within microbial cells, compromising the integrity of the cell membrane and ultimately leading to microbial death.
Decomposition into Monoatomic Oxygen: It readily decomposes into oxygen and water when exposed to heat, light, heavy metals, or certain impurities, and is miscible with water in all proportions. This process generates reactive oxygen species and their derivatives, such as hydroxyl (OH) radicals, which have a potent lethal effect on microorganisms.
Application Scenarios: - Air Disinfection: In unoccupied spaces, use a 1.0%–3.0% hydrogen peroxide disinfectant solution for aerosol spray or dry fog disinfection. - Surface Disinfection: Wipe, soak, or spray object surfaces with a 10% hydrogen peroxide disinfectant solution. Allow a contact time of 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water. - Skin Wound Disinfection: Directly flush the skin surface of the wound with a 1.5%–3.0% hydrogen peroxide disinfectant solution. Allow a contact time of 3–5 minutes. - Medical Instrument Disinfection: For corrosion-resistant medical instruments, soak in a 60% hydrogen peroxide disinfectant solution for a contact time of 120 minutes.
Precautions: Hydrogen peroxide is corrosive and may cause irritation or burns to the eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. In case of accidental contact, immediately rinse thoroughly with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention promptly.
2.2 Chlorine-Based Disinfectants: Such as 84 Disinfectant, Bleaching Powder, and Other Daily-Use or Non-Routine Medical Disinfectants. Detailed analysis is not provided in this text.
3. Intermediate-Level Disinfectants
Chemical agents capable of killing mycobacteria, fungi, viruses, and vegetative bacteria, but unable to kill bacterial endospores. Examples include alcohols, iodine-based agents, and certain chlorine-based disinfectants.
1.Povidone-Iodine: A non-toxic, fast-acting, non-corrosive disinfectant suitable for medical instruments, object surfaces, and skin. Due to its lower concentration, it provides effective bactericidal action and can be used for wound disinfection. If a wound becomes infected, povidone-iodine can be used for cleansing to facilitate healing.
2.Iodine-Based Disinfectants: Tincture of Iodine (commonly known as iodine tincture) is primarily used for disinfecting skin, mucous membranes, thermometers, and other object surfaces. Due to its higher concentration, it offers strong disinfection and can be used for pre-operative skin preparation on limbs. However, it must not be applied directly to damaged skin, as it may cause irritation and chemical burns.
3.Ethanol (75% Alcohol): 75% alcohol exhibits excellent disinfectant properties, effectively destroying vegetative bacteria and most lipophilic viruses. It is commonly used for repeated wiping or soaking disinfection.
4.Normal Saline Solution: Classified as an intermediate-level disinfectant, it can be applied directly to the skin surface to address superficial infections. A 0.9% concentration is intended for cleansing purposes, while a 1.2% concentration is intended for injection.
4. Low-Level Disinfectants
Chemical agents capable of killing vegetative bacteria and lipophilic viruses. Examples include phenols, biguanides, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Note: These agents cannot kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis, hydrophilic viruses, or bacterial endospores.
1.Benzalkonium Bromide: A quaternary ammonium compound commonly used for cleaning and disinfecting skin, mucous membranes, and external environments. It is suitable for patients allergic to alcohol or povidone-iodine, although its disinfectant efficacy is lower than that of alcohol.
2.Chlorhexidine (Also Known as Hibiclens): A biguanide disinfectant that is non-irritating to skin and mucous membranes but has suboptimal efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and fungal viruses. (Commonly used in mouthwashes and feminine intimate washes.)
3.Benzalkonium Chloride (Zephiran): Another quaternary ammonium compound frequently used for cleaning and disinfecting skin, mucous membranes, and external environments.
4.Application Scenarios and Safety: Low-level disinfectants are typically used for cleaning and disinfecting non-critical items. Because they are non-irritating to skin and mucous membranes, they are suitable for special circumstances, such as pre-operative site disinfection for patients allergic to alcohol or povidone-iodine. However, due to their relatively weaker disinfectant efficacy, they are primarily suited for routine cleaning and maintenance tasks.
5.Comparison with Other Disinfectant Classes: Compared to high-level and intermediate-level disinfectants, the primary distinction of low-level disinfectants is their weaker bactericidal capacity; they cannot eliminate more resilient microorganisms such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis or bacterial endospores. High-level disinfectants can eradicate a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacterial endospores, while intermediate-level disinfectants can eliminate mycobacteria, fungi, viruses, and vegetative bacteria.

Principles and Methods of Chemical Disinfectant Use
Principles of Chemical Disinfectant Use: 1. Use rationally: Avoid use when unnecessary; minimize usage when required. 2. Select the appropriate disinfectant based on the properties of the items and the characteristics of various microorganisms. 3. Strictly control the effective concentration, contact time, and application method of the disinfectant. 4. Disinfectants should be replaced regularly. Volatile solutions must be covered, and their concentration should be tested and adjusted periodically. 5. Items to be disinfected must be cleaned and dried first. 6. Do not place gauze, cotton, or similar materials into the disinfectant, as this may reduce its efficacy. 7. Items must be thoroughly rinsed with distilled water before use to prevent the disinfectant from irritating human tissues. 8. Be familiar with the toxic side effects of disinfectants and ensure proper personal protection for staff!
Methods of Chemical Disinfectant Use: 1. Immersion: A method where cleaned and dried items are fully submerged in a disinfectant solution of a specified concentration for a set period. Before immersion, open the hinges or caps of the items, and fill the lumens with the disinfectant. This method is suitable for most items (commonly used for perforating instruments, jewelry, etc.). 2. Rubbing: A method involving wiping the surface of contaminated items, skin, or mucous membranes with a chemical disinfectant of a specified concentration. Generally, disinfectants that are highly water-soluble, have strong penetrating power, and cause no significant irritation are selected. 3. Nebulization (Spraying): A method where a chemical disinfectant of a certain concentration is evenly sprayed onto spaces or item surfaces using a sprayer within a specified timeframe. Commonly used for air and surface disinfection. 4. Fumigation: A sterilization method performed in a sealed space by heating a disinfectant of a certain concentration or adding an oxidizing agent to generate gas for a specified period. Used for air disinfection in operating rooms, dressing rooms, and wards, as well as for precision instruments and items that cannot be boiled or immersed.
Ultrasonic Cleaners
Ultrasonic cleaners are widely used in surface coating, machinery, electronics, medical, semiconductor, watch and jewelry, optics, and textile dyeing industries.
Functions and Advantages of Ultrasonic Cleaners: 1. Highly Efficient Cleaning: Utilizes micro-bubbles generated by high-frequency vibrations to impact and strip contaminants from surfaces, thoroughly removing fine particles and stubborn grease in a short time. 2. Item Protection: Causes no damage or scratches to items during the cleaning process. Suitable for precision instruments, fragile glassware, or valuable jewelry. 3. Intelligent Operation: Modern ultrasonic cleaners feature smart operation. Users simply set the cleaning program, and the machine automatically completes the washing and rinsing processes, significantly saving labor costs. Meanwhile, its precise temperature control system ensures the cleaning solution operates at the optimal temperature, improving cleaning efficiency and extending equipment lifespan.
Step 2 of Perforating Instrument Disinfection: Medical UV + Ozone Cabinet
Function of UV: Ultraviolet light can kill various microorganisms, including vegetative bacteria, spores, mycobacteria, viruses, fungi, rickettsiae, and mycoplasma, offering broad-spectrum efficacy. It destroys microorganisms from within, leading to their death. Advantages: Most products on the market use 20W UV lamps (radiation intensity should not be less than 70μW/cm²). The disinfection time is generally designed to be over 20–50 minutes, providing excellent killing effects against most bacteria. Disadvantages: UV light travels only in straight lines, has low radiation energy and weak penetrating power, and can only kill microorganisms directly exposed to it. Therefore, the areas to be disinfected should be fully exposed to UV light as much as possible.
Function of Ozone: Due to its strong oxidizing properties, ozone disinfection exhibits outstanding bactericidal and disinfectant effects, acting as a highly efficient broad-spectrum germicide. Ozone can also kill hepatitis viruses, cold viruses, etc. Advantages: Ozone disinfection requires only plugging in the device, with no fuel needed. It is fully automatically controlled, making it convenient to operate. It is safe, leaves no residue, and provides ideal killing effects against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Disadvantages: The sterilization time is relatively long, generally requiring 20–50 minutes. Additionally, if the surface of the items to be disinfected is wet, the efficacy of ozone disinfection will be reduced.
Step 3 of Perforating Instrument Disinfection: High-Temperature High-Pressure Sterilizer
Function of High-Temperature High-Pressure Sterilization: Using high temperature and high pressure not only kills general bacteria and fungi but also effectively destroys spores. Advantages: It is currently the most reliable and widely used physical sterilization method. It features short sterilization times and minimal damage to items. It can achieve sterilization even when items are packed tightly or stacked, and can sterilize items inside lidded containers. The entire process is program-controlled, saving labor while remaining stable and reliable. Disadvantages: It carries high operational risks and requires professional operation to prevent accidents. (Before each operation, check if the safety valve is normal and if the water inlet/outlet levels are appropriate.)
Operation Procedure: 1. Prepare the Sterilizer: Ensure the sterilizer is clean and fill the steam-generation container with distilled water. 2. Load Items: Place the items to be sterilized into the sterilizer, avoiding overloading. 3. Seal the Chamber: Ensure the sterilizer’s seal is intact and properly installed to prevent air leaks. 4. Set Parameters: Set the steam temperature, pressure, and sterilization time according to requirements, ensuring the values are correct. 5. Preheat: Preheat the sterilizer to reach the set temperature and pressure before starting the sterilization cycle. 6. Start Sterilization: Once the preset temperature and pressure are reached, start the sterilization timer. 7. Cool Down: After the sterilization time ends, turn off the heat source and wait for the sterilizer’s temperature to drop to a safe level. 8. Exhaust: Slowly open the exhaust valve to release internal pressure before opening the sterilizer door. 9. Remove Items: Carefully remove the sterilized items, taking precautions to avoid burns.
Precautions: 1. Before each sterilization cycle, check the safety valve’s performance to prevent excessive pressure and potential explosions. 2. The sterilizer should be used indoors in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from flammable and explosive materials. 3. The socket must be grounded, and the power plug must be inserted securely. Do not damage the wire or use non-specified power cords. 4. The spring contact on the power cord connection serves as protective grounding and must maintain good contact. 5. Always wear gloves when removing sterilized items to prevent burns. 6. When arranging items for sterilization, avoid packing them too tightly or in overly large bundles to ensure steam penetration and effective sterilization. 7. Never block the safety valve exhaust port; leave space to ensure proper venting. Blockages can cause the equipment to malfunction and lead to accidents.
Disinfection and Sterilization Workflow
Disinfection and Sterilization Workflow: 1. Preparation: - 1.1 Use ultrasonic cleaner solution to remove dirt. Cleaning time should not exceed 15 minutes (Temperature: 40°–60°) + Distilled water (100:1). - 1.2 Use medical multi-enzyme cleaning solution. Cleaning time: 20–30 minutes (Temperature: 40°–50°) + Distilled water (100:1, ratio adjusted for heavy contamination). 2. Cleaning: - Place instruments to be cleaned into a cleaning basket, then place the basket into the cleaning tank (to prevent equipment damage and ensure cleaning efficacy). - Pour in the ultrasonic cleaning solution and mix according to the specified ratio. The water level in the tank must not be lower than 60mm (1/2) and not higher than 80mm (2/3). The recommended tank water temperature is around 45°C, with the optimal cleaning solution temperature between 40°C–50°C. Too low a temperature reduces enzyme activity, while too high a temperature deactivates the enzymes. - Clean for 30 minutes. For heavily soiled items, extend the cleaning time or use a brush to manually remove visible attachments. 3. Drying: - Place cleaned metal instruments/jewelry on a tray and rinse thoroughly with distilled water (to avoid residue). - Transfer to a tray lined with sterile gauze/non-woven fabric/beauty wipes to air dry or wipe dry. 4. Disinfection: - Dry Heat: Place in a high-temperature sterilizer for 30 minutes (180°C). After sterilization, wait until the temperature drops below 40°C (approx. 20 minutes) before opening the door to remove items (alcohol can be sprayed to cool down quickly). - Radiation: Disinfect in a UV-Ozone cabinet for 20 minutes (dry items beforehand). For better results, let items rest for 30 minutes after disinfection before removal (ozone sterilization is more effective). - Pressure Steam: Perform high-temperature high-pressure sterilization (first seal instruments/jewelry in sterilization pouches). Once completed, carefully remove items to prevent burns. - Glutaraldehyde Disinfectant (Single-component) + Medical Stainless Steel Box: Fully submerge items and soak at room temperature for 10 hours. 5. Storage: Depending on personal preference, store in medical-grade storage boxes, UV sterilizer cabinets, or jewelry cabinets (wrapped in sterilization pouches).
Cleaning and Disinfection Workflow (New Trial Version): - Daily Instrument Cleaning Workflow (Auxiliary forceps, guide rods, receiving tubes, etc.): 1.1 → 1.2 → 2 → 3.1 → 4.1 → 4.2 → 4.3/4.4 → 5 - Disposable Metal Cleaning Workflow (Jewelry posts, jewelry heads, etc.): 1.1 → 1.2 → 2 → 3.1 → 3.2 → 4.3/4.4 → 5
Thank you for watching. Produced by GuiGui, Guangzhou Douyin/Xiaohongshu: Piercer GuiGui 2024.05.31