Rinsing is a must, following the initial presoaking process and then after mechanical or manual cleaning of the instrument or device.  This ensures that loosened debris and residue of detergents from the cleaning process are completely removed.  Tap water is acceptable for rinsing; however, for the final rinse, treated water is recommended to avoid staining, corrosion or pitting of the instrument or device.

Rinsing endoscopes:

Rinsing endoscopes and flushing channels with sterile water, filtered water, or tap water will prevent adverse effects associated with disinfectant retained in the endoscope (e.g., disinfectant-induced colitis).  Items can be rinsed and flushed using sterile water after high-level disinfection to prevent contamination with organisms in tap water, such as nontuberculous mycobacteria, Legionella, or gram-negative bacilli such as Pseudomonas.  Alternatively, a tap water or filtered water (0.2μ filter) rinse should be followed by an alcohol rinse and forced air drying.  Forced-air drying markedly reduces bacterial contamination of stored endoscopes, most likely by removing the wet environment favorable for bacterial growth.  After rinsing, items should be dried and stored (e.g., packaged) in a manner that protects them from recontamination. See the complete recommendations on sterilizer and disinfection at www.cdc.gov “Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008”.

ATS, Inc. stocks sterility assurance products and sterilizer monitoring systems – see Supplies.

DID YOU KNOW?

§       Autoclave Testing Service, Inc. is one of the first companies nationwide to offer a Mail-In sterilizer monitoring service using biological indicators.  Serving the healthcare industry throughout the United States and Canada since 1986, we have thousands of satisfied customers.

§       We have on-line test results allowing you to access your results at your convenience!  Your Sterilizer Test Report (STR) is posted on-line upon completion of culturing, offering minimum turn-around time.

§       We have 24-hour test results for Steam sterilizers!

§       We have a comprehensive Glossary of Terms related to the sterile processing area (scroll below to view the Glossary).  This is invaluable information, assisting you with this important area of your facility.

ATS, Inc. now stocks sterilization pouches, sterilizer cleaners, chemical indicator products, sterilizers (new and used), ultrasonic cleaners, water distillers, and more!  (see Supplies).