How to Disinfect Medical Equipment
Sterilization of medical equipment is crucial for keeping medical facilities germ-free and safe. There are many techniques to disinfect and sterilize equipment, using antibacterial soap, ultraviolet-light exposure and disinfectant solutions, such as bleach and intense heat. Proper sterilization of equipment, tools and surfaces allows medical procedures to be done without risk of cross-contamination that could endanger the health of hospital visitors.
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Things You'll Need
- Ultraviolet sterilization chamber
- Sterile cleaning pads
- Rubbing alcohol
- Steam-cleaning chamber
Instructions
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Begin by cleaning medical instruments.This removes organic material that might harbor infectious microorganisms or microbes. Use soap and hot water to rinse away dirt, soil, blood or dust.
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Use a disinfecting agent approved for use on medical equipment. There are high-, mid- and low-level disinfectants for use depending on the type of microorganism on the instrument; using a high-level disinfectant ensures that most of the microbial life on the instrument will be destroyed. Rubbing alcohol is a common mid-level disinfectant, and an ultraviolet-light chamber also can be used.
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Sterilization is the process of destroying all microbial life on an instrument to render it safe for future use. This generally is used only on "critical instruments," those that will come into direct contact with a patient's blood or mucous membranes. To sterilize an item, subject it to very high, dry heat for a specified period, use a pressurized steam bath, or use a chemical sterilizer.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control, "extraordinary attempts to disinfect walls, floors or other environmental surfaces are not necessary." The CDC does recommend cleaning these surfaces regularly to prevent a buildup of organic matter that could harbor hazardous microbial life. Use a light bleach solution to clean floors and surfaces.
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Tips & Warnings
Medical equipment should always be sterilized before use. Bacteria and viruses can thrive on unsterilized surfaces and spread diseases.
If the sterilization of any medical instrument is questionable, decontaminate it, or throw it away. Even trace amounts of bacteria or viruses can replicate quickly, recontaminating the instrument.
Be careful when sterilizing sharp medical tools, such as scissors or scalpels. A minor cut from a contaminated instrument can lead to an infection, or you could contract a virus. Always wear gloves when handling these instruments, and report any accidental scrapes immediately.
