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S T E R I L E
P R O C E S S I N G
5. Transport and cooldown
Transportation is crucial. The flashed item must arrive at the OR in a
completely closed container. The surgical tech shouldn't be leaving
the room to retrieve instruments, as happened years ago. When the
circulating nurse opens the container lid in the OR, the surgical tech is
charged with making sure by touch that the item or items are cool
enough to use. If not, the items are cooled in sterile water before use.
Flashing done right
The purchase of new flash containers is a major investment and one
that demands careful research based on expected usage and container longevity. We all try to limit usage, but flashing is a reality for most
surgical facilities in an emergent situation. When performed correctly,
flash sterilization is a safe and effective process for the sterilization of
medical devices. OSM
Ms. Gullion is a charge nurse of the OR, an infection control nurse and a
nurse clinical educator based in Sacramento, Calif. Send e-mail to editor@outpa tientsurg ery.net.
N O V E M B E R 2012 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
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