Tips for care and handling of surgical instruments

To maintain the effectiveness of surgical instruments, they must be kept clean and sterile. To ensure this, follow these steps:

Inspect surgical instruments before use.

·        Before you use surgical instruments make sure they are clean and sterile, with no rust or corrosion.

·        Check the expiration date on the package to make sure it hasn't expired, and look for stains or discoloration in the instrument--these could indicate bacteria growth during storage.

·        If you're using disposable instruments, check them even more carefully than reusable ones since they have been sterilized already (though some manufacturers recommend checking their packaging just to be sure).

Handle instruments with care.

·        When handling instruments, use forceps to hold sharp or edged tools that may cut you if dropped.

·        If an instrument needs cleaning, use a sponge soaked in sterile water or alcohol; do not wipe it dry with your bare hands because it may be contaminated by bacteria from your skin (which are invisible).

·        Do not leave instruments uncovered when they are not being used; keep them covered with sterile towels until ready for use again.

Clean instruments after use, preferably within 15 minutes.

·        After use, surgical instruments should be cleaned and disinfected as soon as possible.

·        If you cannot do this within 15 minutes of using the instrument, ensure it is appropriately packaged in a sterile container.

·        If you do not have access to hot water or steam for cleaning purposes (for example, if you're operating in an emergency), use soap and rubbing alcohol when rinsing off blood from instruments before putting them into solution or boiling water.

Clean and disinfect devices between patients.

·        After using an instrument on a patient, you should rinse off any blood or other body fluids with water, then disinfect the instrument by dipping a clean cloth or sponge into a disinfectant solution.

·        Wipe down all parts of the instrument that come into contact with the patient's skin (including handles), as this will kill any bacteria or viruses that may have been left behind during use.

·        When cleaning reusable surgical instruments, never immerse them in water. Instead, use an antiseptic solution.

Avoid cross-contamination by keeping instruments in a closed container between uses.

·        Use a closed container labeled with the last patient's name, date and time.

·        Keep instruments in a closed container until they are ready to be used again (for example, after surgery has been completed).

 

·        Keep instruments in a closed container until they are ready to be cleaned (for example, before going into storage).