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Instrument Care
Properly
caring for your instruments will increase their life and usefulness.
They will function to the standards they were intended to when
new, and they will continue to be smooth in their operation
and performance. For clarity, it is important to remember that
there is no such thing as “true” stainless steel. Even the highest
quality stainless steel, if not maintained and treated properly,
can corrode and stain. It is essential that instruments of the
appropriate size and type be used for the task they were designed
and intended. Use of instruments for other purposes can damage
them or shorten their useful life span.
Disinfect
Disinfect
instruments as soon as possible after use. Do not submerge instruments
in cold sterile solution, or any other solution, for more than
30 minutes at a time. Do not use solutions with benzyl ammonium
chloride on any instruments with tungsten carbide inserts; it
will destroy the inserts.
Clean
Manually
clean all instruments with an approved instrument cleaning solution,
or if available, clean in an ultra-sonic cleaner. Carefully
follow all instructions from the solution and equipment manufacturers.
A soft brush may be used to help remove stubborn
debris.
Rinse
Thoroughly
rinse instruments with distilled or de-ionized water. It
is especially important to properly rinse your instruments.
Tap water contains minerals and chemicals, and you should never
rinse your instruments with it. Doing so will cause corrosion
and staining of the instrument surface.
Inspect
Inspect
instruments for damage and alignment. Flag any instruments in
need of repair.
Lubricate
Lubricate
instruments with a medically approved lubricant and allow them
to drain.
Sterilize
Sterilize
instruments in an open position in an autoclave or use an alternately
approved sterilization procedure. Please follow the instructions
of your sterilization equipment manufacturer and the sterilization
procedures outlined by your facility.
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