Sterilizing With an Autoclave

1. Sterilizing With an Autoclave • Indicators are used to ensure that articles have been sterilized • Autoclave tape, sensitivity marks on bags or wraps, indicator capsules • Indicators will change appearance when sterile

2. Sterile Field • Never reach across a sterile field – reach in from the side • Never turn your back on a sterile field • 2-inch border of a sterile field is considered contaminated

3. Sterile Field • Common Techniques • Drop Technique • Mitten Technique • Transfer Forceps • Keep sterile field dry (pathogens travel through wet) and be careful when pouring fluids

4. Sterile Draping Confirm package is sterile- not expired, open, dry Procedure: Place package- center surface top flap set to open away Pinch 1st flap on outside of wrapper – open and lay flat Right hand open RT flap Left hand open Lt flap Grasp turned down corner and pull the 4th flap open Never reach over the package- always reach around Drop contents onto the sterile field-6 inches above- angle ensure package wrapping does not touch sterile field. Open solutions and pour into sterile containers- confirm name, strength and expiration date- only sterile if used immediately-once set down, no longer sterile.

5. Sterile Gloves Sterile field needs to be open before putting on gloves Sterile gloves are contaminated on the inside – once on keep hands away from body and above waist When in doubt, consider it contaminated

6. Opening Sterile Packages • Check to make sure it has not expired • Open the distal end and pull it away from you, reaching around the package, not across it

7. Opening Sterile Packages • Open the sides without touching the inside wrapper • Pull the bottom down toward you