Proper cleaning of surgical instruments is of utmost importance in all healthcare and clinical settings.
It is what ensures and guarantees the decontamination process, which in turn prevents the transmission of infections and seals the safety of all kinds of instruments for future use.
This blog presents a comprehensive 10-step guide on thoroughly and correctly cleaning surgical instruments. It breaks down the surgical instrument cleaning protocol so that you know you are following all the rules of disinfection and sterilisation.
Why Cleaning Surgical Instruments Matters
The answer is rather obvious. However, highlighting the importance of cleaning surgical instruments will help you adhere to the suggestions in the following guide.
First of all, disinfection of surgical instruments (which is what cleaning is all about) is a crucial phase in preventing the transmission of bacteria and other pathogens from one patient to another.
If you don’t clean these tools properly, residual organic material can be transferred to both patients and healthcare workers who use them, posing serious health risks to both.
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Surgical Instrument Cleaning Protocol: A Step-by-Step Guide
In the following lines, you’ll discover the components of a standard surgical instrument cleaning protocol adopted in clinics, hospitals, and laboratories. By adhering to it, medical professionals can eliminate the risk of health hazards.
Here are the essential steps for cleaning surgical instruments the right way:
Step 1: Pre-Clean Immediately After Use
Once the surgery or any other invasive medical procedure is complete, you should immediately rinse or wipe the scissors, pliers, needle holders, and all other instruments to prevent blood, tissue, or other contaminants from drying and hardening on their surfaces. That can be done with plain running water. But, without delay.
Step 2: Soak Instruments
Although the first step prepares the surgical instruments for cleaning, it is only the beginning of the process. Next, place the tools in an enzymatic solution or an approved detergent solution for pre-soaking. This softens and breaks down any leftover organic matter, making the following steps easier.
Step 3: Manual Cleaning
At this point, you will need to use your hands. And a soft-bristled brush to help you. Start scrubbing all surfaces of the instruments, including hinges and crevices. Ensure you always clean below the waterline to reduce aerosol spread and eliminate air transmission of debris and any organic matter.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
This is when you have to rinse the surgical tools once again. This time, the rinsing will be much more effective because it will remove both loosened debris and detergent residue. Clean the surgical instruments by placing them under a running tap of filtered or distilled water, which will yield better results.
Step 5: Inspect for Cleanliness
Still, you won’t be sure the cleaning of surgical instruments is appropriately done unless you closely examine them. One be one. Check for any remaining debris, rust, or stains. If you notice any damaged instruments during this inspection, ensure it is removed for either repair or disposal.
Step 6: Ultrasonic Cleaning (Optional)
Sometimes, all the above steps are just not enough. That goes for instruments with complex designs or tight hinges. In such cases, the Surgical Instrument Cleaning Protocol recommends the use of ultrasonic cleaners. These devices are highly effective because they utilise sound waves and can clean all hidden or difficult-to-reach spots that the human hand can’t reach.
Step 7: Rinse Again
One more time. Whether you have completed the inspection or ultrasonic cleaning of surgical instruments, a second rinse is essential to remove any remaining contaminants, detergent or cleaning solution.
Step 8: Drying
After all the cleaning and rinsing, it’s time to proceed to the drying process. Dry instruments completely using lint-free cloths or air drying. Ensure that no moisture is left on their surface. Moisture promotes corrosion and interferes with sterilisation, making it less effective.
Step 9: Organise in Sterilisation Trays
The next step of the Surgical Instrument Cleaning Protocol involves placing the instruments in sterilisation trays. During this stage, you should leave the hinged items open and protect the sharp ones. Organise them neatly in the sterilisation trays for surgical instruments, specially designed for this purpose.
Step 10: Proceed to Sterilisation
Finally, once you have cleaned and dried all the tools, you can follow the last step of the Surgical Instrument Cleaning Protocol, which involves disinfecting surgical instruments (high-level disinfection) or sterilising them. In this phase, you’ll typically use autoclave or chemical methods, depending on the instrument’s classification.
Why Disinfection of Surgical Instruments Is Essential
Is cleaning, even in ultrasonic cleaning of surgical instruments, enough? No.
While it removes debris, the disinfection of surgical instruments goes beyond that, eliminating a wide range of microorganisms and other pathogens that can be transmitted to other users and prove to be harmful.
To ensure proper disinfection of surgical instruments, follow the practices suggested below:
- Use EPA-registered hospital disinfectants or high-level disinfectants for critical and semi-critical instruments.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for contact time, dilution, and safety.
- Avoid using the same containers for cleaning and disinfection to prevent cross-contamination.
- Track down and log all the disinfection cycles to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Why You Need Sterilisation Trays for Surgical Instruments
Sterilisation trays for surgical instruments aren’t just another medical supply. They are designed to facilitate the organisation, protection and sterilisation process of surgical tools. So, they are essential for many reasons.
Here are some basic features to look for in sterilisation trays for surgical instruments:
- To be made of durable and heat-resistant material (e.g., stainless steel, medical-grade plastic).
- To allow for proper perforation to support steam or gas penetration.
- To come with built-in instrument holding brackets or silicone mats to prevent movement during transfer.
- To be compatible with the sterilisation method you follow (steam, ethylene oxide, etc.)
Using high-quality sterilisation trays for surgical instruments will ensure that your tools are held securely and sterilised evenly.
FAQs about Cleaning Surgical Instruments
1. Why Is Cleaning Surgical Instruments Before Sterilisation Important?
2. What Does The Surgical Instrument Cleaning Protocol Involve?
3. What Are Sterilisation Trays For Surgical Instruments Used For?
