Instrument Reprocessing Best Practices

1 | Instrument transportation

• Handle contaminated instruments carefully to prevent exposure, using appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE)
• Place in a sealed, leak-proof container with a biohazard symbol to prevent contact injuries during transport to the instrument reprocessing area

3 | Instrument sterilization

• Load the sterilizer with lighter items on the top shelf and heavier items on the bottom
• Place peel pouches on the edge of the sterilizer, facing the same direction
• Place wrapped trays at or on their side, depending on their design
• Use steam sterilization whenever possible
• Check the instrument manufacturers’ IFU to confirm the cycle type, exposure time, temperature and dry time
• Packages typically need a dry time of 20-30 minutes at the end of the cycle to ensure all packages are visibly dry after processing

5 | Instrument storage and delivery

• After sterilization, inspect all packages for proper color change of the external chemical indicator
• Do not handle any package that is visibly wet, as this will compromise sterility of the items inside
• Store sterile packages in a clean, dry location
• The shelf-life of sterile items depends on the quality of the packaging material, storage conditions, the conditions during transport and the amount of handling
• Prior to distribution, inspect sterile packages and do not use any that are damaged, wet or opened

This describes best practices for instrument reprocessing in medical offices. For more comprehensive information, refer to AAMI Standards and CDC Guidelines.

Unless otherwise noted, the recommendations in this document were obtained from: AAMI and CDC Guidelines. Be advised that information contained herein is intended to serve as a useful reference for informational purposes only and is not complete clinical information. This information is intended for use only by competent healthcare professionals exercising judgment in providing care. McKesson cannot be held responsible for the continued currency of or for any errors or omissions in the information. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.