rigid containers provide an added benefit. Loaners usually don't have
a back-up. If there's a hole in the wrapper, you might have to resched-
ule the case. Not a problem with rigid pans.
Proceed with caution
This is not to say rigid containers are problem-free. For example, the
weight they add to the tray could be troublesome. AAMI standards rec-
ommend tray weight of no more than 25 pounds and adding a rigid pan
can put your trays over the mark. So while it certainly make sense to
use containers for orthopedic and neuro surgery instruments due to the
weight of those sets and the potential for tears and abrasions in the
wrap, keep the weight restrictions in mind.
There's also size to consider. Containers are bigger, and you might
not be able to fit as many trays into the sterilizer, so your loads may
be smaller and more frequent. And you might need multiple sizes of
rigid containers, with varying depths and lengths, to accommodate all
sizes of instruments.
Then there's maintenance. Loose locks, falling retention plates and
worn gaskets will not maintain sterility. Inspect your containers every
time you use them. Ensure the lids fit correctly and that there are no
cracks or breaks. Your OR staff should ensure that tamper locks are
in place and filters are intact before using the contents in a sterile pro-
cedure.
Don't forget the added workload with metal trays. They must be dis-
assembled, washed and disinfected before every use, which adds to
the reprocessing workload.
If your facility uses hydrogen peroxide (gas or plasma) sterilization,
you'll need 2 different types of containers: one that can go in steam
sterilization and one that can go in hydrogen peroxide sterilization.
Not all instrument systems are validated for all rigid containers.
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