Paper or plastic "has a new meaning when it is related to the disinfection of instruments in dental clinics. As a medical device, there are strict standards for the production of sterilization packaging. Disinfection and sterilization bags are usually made of paper and plastic and are a key component of any sterility assurance.
The goal of the dental infection control program is to reduce the risk of disease transmission and provide a safe environment for each patient working in a dental clinic or dental patient.
The performance standard of ISO has made it clear that the only way to ensure that an item is effectively steam sterilized is to expose it to three sterilization variables - the presence of time, temperature and steam. However, many traditional sterilization bags only have an external Type 1 process indicator to confirm exposure to high temperatures. Now with advanced technology, the design of a sterilization bag has internal and external multivariable indicators. Please remember that the chemical indicators do not include microbial spores, so they cannot prove that the bag is sterile. The use of this multivariable bag, combined with weekly biological monitoring, provides a high level of sterility assurance.
There are many factors to consider when selecting packaging materials. Packaging materials must be compatible with the sterilizer used (i.e. steam, dry heat, unsaturated chemical steam). It is also noted that some packaging types and materials do not conform to all sterilization methods. The use of incorrect materials may prevent or reduce the penetration of sterilizing agents.
Maintaining the sterility of the instrument after sterilization is an important part of any sterilization procedure, so the quality and durability of the sterilization package are crucial. It is recommended to use medical grade surgical kraft paper and transparent polypropylene/polyester laminate film; Since some manufacturers use recycled paper, they should be cautious. The basic weight of surgical kraft paper used for sterilization bags is 40-60 pounds. It only contains approved additives. The porosity is controllable and the pinhole is not greater than 0.5 mm. 3. The sterilizing agent enters through the paper surface of the bag, and the air hole must be effectively closed during the drying process to maintain the sterility of the material. Select a bag of appropriate size to prevent overloading of the instrument, and help to ensure the penetration of bacteria free agent, so as to reduce the chance of tearing; There should be at least 1 inch space between the top of the instrument or cassette and the seal of the mail bag.
Since the self sealing bag will expand and contract during sterilization, the design of the self sealing bag is multi side sealing and tail sealing. Self sealing tape is used to protect the sterility of the environment inside the bag. The plastic or laminate side provides strength, sealing and thermal stability. When the adhesive is 50% covered on the paper and 50% on the laminate, a properly sealed bag is displayed. If the adhesive seal is 100% on the laminate, the opening at the top of the bag is not protected, thus affecting the sterile content. Before installing the instrument, the bag can be pre folded on the perforated line, because after the protective tape is removed for sealing, the crease will play a guiding role. Any deviation of the seal may cause gaps and damage the sterility of the package. Exhaust air from the bag as much as possible before adhering the self sealing to the laminate; This will help prevent the seal from bursting during disinfection. The special feature of pressure-sensitive adhesive is that it becomes stronger in the sterilization process and becomes the permanent seal of this single use device.
After sterilization and storage, the clean separation of membrane and paper is very important for the sterility of the contents. The outer layer of the film has been exposed during transportation and storage. If any part of the plastic is still attached to the paper or the instrument contacts the plastic surface, they will be considered polluted and must be reprocessed.
There is some controversy about paper or plastic facing up. The best way is to put things on the shelf, just like books on the shelf. This structure is conducive to the effective circulation and infiltration of steam, as well as the drying process. The bag should not be touched before drying to reduce the chance of bacterial infection.
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