Download Autoclave (steam under pressure)

Autoclave (steam under pressure)
• Heat in the form of steam is one of the
most dependable and practical methods
for decontamination.
• Normal operating levels are 15 min at
121° C and 15 psig (2 atm).
• Autoclaving sterilizes equipment.
• Kills organisms by coagulation of the cell
protein.
Autoclave
• Bacteria filters are commonly sterilized by this method,
but any material made of rubber cannot withstand the
intense heat.
• The tops of nebulizers and humidifiers should be
attached loosely to allow exposure to all parts of the
device.
• Equipment to be autoclaved must be thoroughly washed
in soapy water, dried, and wrapped in muslin, cloth, or a
paper bag.
• Written on the outside of the wrap should be information
including the time and date of processing, what kind of
equipment is inside the wrap, and who prepared the
equipment for processing.
• (Persing, Gary. Respiratory Care Exam
Review: Review for the Entry Level and
Advanced Exams, 3rd Edition. Elsevier
Health Sciences, 112009. 17.2).