Ensure all instruments and cassettes are dry before packaging for sterilisation. After cleaning, critical and semicritical instruments should be inspected for remaining debris.

An internal chemical indicator should be placed inside each instrument package prior to sterilisation. If the internal indicator is not visible from outside the package, an external indicator should be affixed to the pack.

Packages should be labeled with the date and, if multiple sterilisers are used within the facility, the steriliser used should also be labeled. This simplifies retrieval of processed items in case of a sterilisation failure. When packaging instruments and cassettes, ensure packaging does not have open gaps.

Ensure the following requirements are fulfilled when wrapping cassettes:

• FDA approved and suitable for steam sterilization (temperature resistance up to at least 141 °C /286 °F, sufficient steam permeability)
• Sufficient protection of the instruments and the sterilization packaging against mechanical damage
• Regular maintenance according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Wrap should be used in accordance with the recommendations of the following standards:
• ANSI/AAMI ST79: Comprehensive Guide to Steam Sterilisation and Sterility Assurance in Health Care Facilities
• CDC Guidelines for Infection Prevention in Dental Healthcare Settings

Article Published Nov/DEC 2021 Dental Solutions