example, will show the presence of protein, hemoglobin and/or adeno-
sine triphosphate (ATP) on devices. To use these tests, you swab the
instrument after cleaning and then either insert the swab into a hand-
held machine to test for bioburden, or into a solution that changes col-
ors if organic debris is detected.
Your techs should also visually inspect the device for cleanliness. If
the device is contaminated, they must repeat the entire cleaning
process.
Also monitor mechanical equipment in your processing department
to ensure it's in good working order. Some tests ensure that ultra-
sound cells in ultrasonic washers are functioning, others demonstrate
that automated washers are effectively removing soil. Techs should
perform these tests regularly, according to the machines' IFUs.
• Storage. Be careful with how you store the device, since biofilm
can easily grow if you let moisture collect in the lumens and channels.
For endoscopes, drying cabinets that circulate HEPA-filtered air and
force air through the scope's channels can help prevent moisture and
the growth of biofilm.
For surgical instruments, it's expected that the tray's blue wrap or
covered container will keep the instruments sterile and ready for use
after sterilization. But if you see any sign of moisture on the outside or
inside of the container or wrap, consider the package contaminated
and reprocess the instruments. To help prevent this, let instruments
adequately cool after sterilization and before you move them from the
sterilizer cart. If you move devices while they're still warm, condensa-
tion can occur and cause the devices in the sterile pack to become
contaminated.
OSM
J U L Y 2 0 1 6 • O U T PA T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T • 7 3
Ms. Swenson (donnaswenson@spqs.org) is the president and CEO of Sterile
Processing Quality Services, an infection prevention and sterilization consulting
company.
