Instruments Care and Maintenance
The following instrument maintenance recommendations are general in nature, and should be applicable to most of the items included within our catalogue. In addition, EXLIN recommends that cleaning/sterilization processes to not combine dissimilar metals. Use only compatible and neutral solutions. All equipments must be scrubbed to remove visible debris first and then sterilized.
Rinsing:
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• We recommend using distilled water for rinsing, not tap water (tap water may contain elements detrimental to the instrument).
Cleaning:
• Stubborn impurities and debris should be removed manually with a soft brush.
• Clean instruments manually, in an ultrasonic cleaning unit, or washer disinfector.
• Place instruments into the cassette prior to cleaning (do not overload cassette).
Drying:
• Dry thoroughly after cleaning and prior to sterilization.
Lubrication:
• Lubricate hinged instruments after rinsing and before sterilization.
Sterilizing
Steam Autoclave:
• Place the washed, dried and oiled instruments in there open positions in the sterilization packets and in appropriate trays.
• Load the autoclave. Place packages on their edges in single layers or on racks to increase circulation of the sterilizing agent.
• After the sterilization cycle has completed, store the instruments in a clean and dry environment.
• Deliver the instrument packages to their area of use on a tray, ensuring the sterility of the instruments is maintained. Inspect the packages for damage.
Cold sterilization:
Careful attention must be made while using a solution for sterilizing instruments. The solution kills specific bacteria and virus but some solutions have no effect in the presence of blood. There are many solutions corrosive on the instruments. Mostly solutions are recommended a soak time of 10hrs because of the long soak time the chemical action may damage the instruments.
Maintenance of aluminum products:
• Don’t use dish washer.
• Don’t use ultrasonic bath.
• Do not use chemicals too alkaline or too acidic. A pH of between 4 and 8 is safe.
• Be careful while using disinfecting liquids, some are incompatible with instruments manufactured from coloured anodized aluminum. The colour of the instruments can be damaged by the use of some chemical cleaners.
Inspection:
• After instrument care and maintenance, thoroughly inspect instruments for any remaining debris or damage, prior to use.
Note:
With proper care, the longevity and performance of all your professional instruments can be extended. |
