Sterilisation Methods
Autoclave
- Works like a pressure cooker.
- Consists of 2 chambers. Water in the lower chamber and instruments in the upper chamber.
- The principle of sterilisation is moist heat.
- The water boils in the lower chamber and steam are released towards the upper chamber. Instruments are left in the unit for 10 – 20 min. Afterward, instruments must be placed in a sterile and clean container.
- The moist heat autoclave operates at 121°C and is considered a very effective means of sterilisation.
- Other types available, e.g., dry heat autoclave, vacuum autoclave, flash instrument autoclave.
- The time and temperature of dry heat autoclave is 160°C (320°F) for 2 hours or 180°C (356°F) for one hour.
- Consult manufacturer’s instructions and local government laws and regulations on sterilisation times and temperatures.
Advantages of an Autoclave
- Economical and very effective
- Non-toxic on instruments
- Easy to operate
Disadvantages of an Autoclave
- Sharp instruments can become blunt.
- Metal instruments might rust. Recommend use of stainless-steel instruments.
- Expensive
- Plastic instruments will be damaged.
- Autoclaves will need to be kept clean.
- Regular servicing and calibration are required of the device.
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Glass Bead Steriliser
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- Operates at approximately 300°C.
- Metal instruments will thus be completely sterilised within minutes.
- Only the parts covered with beads will be sterilised.
- The unit takes + 20 – 30 minutes to warm up before sterilisation can take place.
- If more than one instrument is placed in the container, a longer time must be added for sterilisation.
- Consult manufacturers` instructions and local government laws and regulations on sterilisation times and temperatures
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Wet Sterilisation (Chemical)
Asepsis can be obtained by washing down all surfaces, walls, floors, treatment beds, tiles, trolleys, work surfaces, basins etc. after basic cleaning with an antiseptic solution. EG: Antiseptic solution concentrates, diluted according to manufacturers’ instructions. Towels can also be disinfected in this method. If metal tools are sterilised by this method, the liquid must contain a rust inhibitor.
UV Cabinet
- They are used for the maintenance of your sterilisation process.
- Basically, used as a storage unit.
- They are not used for sterilisation only for sanitation.
- This cabinet will keep your item as clean as it was when you first inserted it.
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Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Antiseptic
A diluted disinfectant that is safe to apply to the skin. Its’ task is to slow down multiplication, growth and in some cases may destroy/kill micro-organisms if the strength of the solution is correct, e.g., some soaps (hands), alcohol and hydrogen peroxide etc.
Disinfectant
A chemical agent which destroys or kills all micro-organisms. Safe to apply on surfaces but too toxic to be applied directly onto the skin, e.g., Quaternary Ammonium compound/Quats, formalin, ethyl or grain alcohol.