Do you know if your office is following the proper infection prevention protocol?
Implementing an infection prevention and instrument processing protocol that follows the European and National Guidelines helps your practice provide a safer and more comfortable environment for your staff and patients.
Enhance instrument integrity by the use of the HuFriedyGroup Instrument Management System (IMS). The IMS Solution allows clinicians to move instruments from cleaning to chairside in Cassettes, without manual handling instruments.
Instrument Processing Area
The dental practice should have a designated central processing area divided physically, or at least spatially, into separate areas for:
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1. RECEIVING, CLEANING & DECONTAMINATION
Effective sterilization begins with thorough cleaning and disinfection to remove debris and contaminants. Wearing puncture-resistant gloves and appropriate PPE is crucial. Utilize automated cleaning equipment for efficiency and safety. Even visibly clean instruments may need verification; consider using Cleaning Monitors to ensure the cleaning process's efficacy in washer-disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners.
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2. PREPARATION & PACKAGING
Ensure instruments are completely dry before packaging. After cleaning, inspect critical and semi-critical instruments for debris. Lubricate hinged instruments like pliers and scissors. HuFriedyGroup offers Shine reNEW wipes for stainless steel restoration and ILS spray for hinge lubrication. Assemble instruments into sets or trays, label packages with the date, and sterilize.
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3. STERILISATION
Follow manufacturer instructions for mechanical and chemical monitors to ensure sterilization effectiveness. Monitor each load with indicators, placing a chemical indicator inside each instrument package. If not visible externally, add another on the outside. Position packages loosely in the sterilizer for proper sterilant penetration. Perform a daily Bowie-Dick Test Pack to detect residual air. Conduct weekly biological monitoring (spore testing) to ensure microorganism destruction in steam sterilization
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4. STORAGE
Store sterile items in covered or closed cabinets. Never store sterile items above a steriliser. Examine all sterilised packs before opening for use to ensure the barrier wrap has not been compromised during storage. Reclean, repack and re-sterilise any instrument package that has been compromised
