1. Autoclave

2. What is an Autoclave? Autoclave is a pressurized device designed to heat aqueous solutions above their boiling point at normal atmospheric pressure to achieve sterilization. Autoclaves is the primary method for sterilizing instruments and equipment.

3. What can be autoclaved? Surgical Instruments Glassware Plastic tubes and pipette tips Solutions and water

4. Steam penetrates objects in the autoclave Condensation creates negative pressure and draws in additional steam Moist heat kills microorganisms via coagulation of proteins (when cells containing coagulated protein cool, their cell walls burst, killing the microorganisms) Principles of Autoclave Operation

5. Autoclave Use Basics Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Packaging Loading Operating User logs Maintenance logs Unloading

6. PPE for Autoclave Users Eye Protection Lab Coat, Buttoned Closed-toed Shoes Heat-resistant Gloves

7. Packaging for Autoclaving Be sure the material should be autoclaved  No volatile chemicals, sharps, red bag waste, radioactivity Utilize containers and autoclave bags appropriate for autoclaving  Clear or orange bags Do not overfill containers

8. Operating the Autoclave Be sure the autoclave is functioning properly before use Record information in User Log Close door properly and securely Choose the correct conditions for your material For decontamination:  Temperature  Total processing time  Pressure

9. Unloading the Autoclave Put on Personal Protective Equipment Allow the autoclave to completely finish cycle  Pressure gauge must read zero Verify cycle conditions were met Open door slightly to allow steam to escape Allow contents to cool before removal Carefully remove items  Be especially careful with fluids and plastic bins

10. P. 33 and 34 How Do You Wrap and label Instrument for Sterilization in the Autoclave