Sterilization Protocol

At Bluestein Surgical Arts, Dr. Bluestein and the staff take great pride in providing the quality of care for our patients that we would be proud to have for our own families. One element of care that is critical to maintaining the highest standards is Sterilization Protocols. These protocols may differ significantly between offices and surgical facilities. Patients trust, but usually lack information about such protocols. We are proud of our strict adherence to sterility, and offer the following information for your comfort, safety, and peace of mind.

Methods Used to Ensure Sterility of Instruments and Equipment:

1. Chemical indicator color change on surface of peel pack/bags
2. Chemical indicator color change of autoclave tape placed on peel packs, autoclave wrap, and containers
3. Autoclave insert strip placed in every peel pack, wrapped item, and container
4. Spore Testing- 3M Attest Biological Monitoring System(model #116); 3M Attest Biological Indicator ampules (#1262; Bacillus stearothermophilus); spores test and control ampules used with every test

Procedures Used to Ensure Sterility of Instruments and Equipment:

1. Use hot water and large brush (for large instruments) and thin bristle brush (for suction handles and tips) to clean instruments.
2. Place instruments in ultrasonic cleaner for 3 minutes.
3. Thoroughly rinse all instruments with hot water for 30 seconds.
4. Place instruments on towel; separate each instrument and allow to air dry.
5. After instruments are thoroughly dry, place in appropriate peel pack, autoclave wrap, or sterilization container.
6. Place an autoclave indicator strip into each pack, wrap, or container; seal and place autoclave tape strips.
7. Autoclave instrument(s).
8. Remove each pack, wrap, or container individually, check chemical indicators on tape and bag and check insert indicator strip inside bag to ensure sterilization.
9. When opening a pack, wrap, or container, always re-check the autoclave tape strips, outside package indicators, and the indicator strips inside the pack, wrap, or container to ensure sterile contents.