erwise. The goal is to make sure all of the instruments are working
properly. Some other things to consider when inspecting instruments:
• Proper lighted magnification. If you don't have a magnifying
glass with a light, get one. And if you have one, or when you get
one, use it! I'll often go to departments where they have one, but
don't use it.
• The right inspection tools. Instruments often don't get inspected
the way they should because of time constraints and a lack of ade-
quate instrument inventories. Ensure that your department has the
proper tools to test your instruments, particularly cutting devices.
Ask your instrument manufacturers what you should be using to test
their devices. They will be more than happy to help you. Also, ask
them to provide education for proper inspection and testing.
Once you've inspected instruments, follow their IFUs — whether
you put them in a peel pack, blue wrap or a container. Keep the fol-
lowing in mind while reassembling instrument sets:
• Peel packs. Don't double-pack unless the manufacturer says you
can. Place instruments in an open position, not a ratcheted one, into
the pack. Is the proper chemical indicator in the pack and is the pack
properly sealed? Visually inspect and test the pack's heat sealer.
• Blue wrap. Fold it as the instructions say, and tape and label it
appropriately.
• Containers. Are the correct filters in place? Are the gaskets
intact and not damaged? Are containers' surfaces smooth and with-
out damage? Is the outside free of tape and debris? Do the contain-
ers close easily and properly?
4. The sterilizer.
Test the sterilizer daily for 3 things: time, temper-
ature and pressure. Keep good documentation for every load and
every cycle. Are you placing the appropriate biological indicator into
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