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INFECTION PREVENTION
occurrence of an event that could compromise integrity.
c. The items are sterile for a maximum of 30 days.
d. both b and c
b. The sterility depends on package integrity and storage conditions.
The old rule of thumb was 30 days, but recent evidence shows that, if
wrapped packs are stored properly after sterilization, and nothing happens to compromise their integrity, the items inside will remain sterile.
This is the principle of event-related sterility.
Events that could compromise sterility include a tear in the packaging, a wet package or a broken seal.1 Other factors are air movement,
foot traffic, location,
humidity, open/closed
shelving, temperature
and wrap material properties.1 Studies show
that, to ensure integrity,
you should
• use covered storage;
• minimize handling
while in storage;
• handle using only
aseptic technique;
• store 8 to 10 inches
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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