Robin McLeod BSN, RN, CRRN

 Define Reusable Medical Equipment (RME)  Define Spaulding Classifications  ID Care of Critical/Semi/Non-critical RME  Describe Environment of Care ◦ Acute care ◦ Chronic care

 Reusable Medical Equipment is anything used in care and treatment of an individual. These items can include:  Surgical Instruments  Scopes  Beds  Basins  Furnishings

 The Spaulding Classification System: categorizes medical devices (RME) into 3 subheadings:  Critical  Semi critical  Non-critical

 Critical items should be sterile when used. These are instruments that enter tissue or the vascular system. If not processed correctly the risk of infection is quite substantial.

 Semi critical items come in contact with non- intact skin or mucous membranes. These items should receive a minimum of high-level disinfection (HLD).

 Noncritical items come in contact with only intact skin and should receive intermediate or low level disinfection.

 Corrugated cardboard boxes are not appropriate because they are an excellent harbour for insects and pests. (courtesy University of Nebraska)

Robin Williams as Patch Adams