other body fluid doesn't dry and make the instrument harder to clean.
After it's used, wipe the instrument down in the OR with a moistened
towel or sponge to remove gross soil. After surgery, the lumen of the
instrument should be flushed using a syringe and an enzymatic deter-
gent, which helps start breaking down bioburden. Instruments with
lumens should be flushed after use and either kept under a moist towel
or soaked in a neutral pH enzyme detergent until they head down to
central sterile processing.
To make this job even simpler, and keep instruments moist without
having to fill a basin for soaking, new gel and foaming enzymatic deter-
gents specifically designed for pre-cleaning can be applied quickly to
instruments after they are used. These form protective barriers to keep
instruments moist for longer. Special bags are also available that keep
instruments moist after use and before cleaning can begin.
2. Soaking and manual cleaning
Even if you use an automated washer, manual scrubbing with a brush
is one of the most crucial steps in cleaning lumened instruments. If
residue is left inside the lumen, it will not be properly disinfected or
sterilized.
After they arrive from the OR, a neutral pH enzyme detergent
should be drawn into the lumen. The instrument can then be sub-
merged horizontally in enzymatic detergent for a specified time listed
in the manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU), typically 5 to 10 min-
utes. Make sure you have the proper concentration of detergent, as
well as the correct temperature of the water. Automatic sink-filling
systems aim to automate this process, reducing waste and ensuring
instruments have a proper soak.
Next, instruments must be scrubbed using the correct brush.
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