Using instrument guards (tip protectors) are a great way to protect surgical instruments. They are designed to protect during and after the sterilization procedure. The products with flow-through vents allow for full contact of the sterilant, yet they can protect tips and edges from breaking and chipping.
Another method is to use instrument foam. Foam products come in various designs, including pouches, sheets, anchors and other designs. When choosing a foam protector, be sure to select one that is compatible with the method of sterilization for that instrument. Open cell foam products are designed for use in steam sterilization. Closed cell foam products are designed for use in gas-plasma sterilizers.
When you are designing a process within your department, make sure you think about how you are going to protect your surgical instruments during sterilization, storage and transportation. Surgical instruments are one of the biggest assets a hospital has and using the appropriate means of protecting them is critical to patient care and is cost effective.
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