Sterilisation Methods

There are three main methods applied in the sterilisation process

• Steam under pressure (applying moist heat).

  Equipment utlised may include gravity sterilizers and pre-vacuum sterilizers.

  Method and equipment used depends on RMD type and sterilisation operating cycle requirements

• Low temperature sterilisation.

  This method often involves chemicals (high-level disinfectants for example where high heat is not possible) such as GLUTARALDEHYDE, PERACETIC ACID , ORTHO-PHTHALALDEHYDE, Ethylene oxide (ETO steriliser) or Gas plasma sterilisation.

• Dry heat.

  This method of sterilisation involves exposure time. It is utilised less often.

Workflow and Layout. CSSD Fitout Considerations

Worflow of a sterilisation department should be carefully planned taking into account "dirty to clean" with distinct physical segregation of cleaning areas from other reprocessing areas (AS 4187 5.6.1 5.6.2)

Rooms, areas should allow for sterilisation of RMDs classified into different families. Sizes should be considered. AS4187 requirements should be coordinated with building code, disability access (DDA) and fire engineering requirements. Part of space planning includes areas that allow for alternative cleaning processes in case automated cleaning equipment is unavailable.

Dedicated areas for aeration and cooling of RMDs (AS4187 6.5.2 and 5.6.9)

Dedicated area for storage and processing of RMDs ready for use - Sterile Store (AS4187 5.6.9)

Storing must allow for integrity of packaging and prevent contamination from any source (e.g. dust, vermin, sunlight, condensation etc.)