Sterilization is an essential part of many professions. Used by doctors, dentists, tattoo artists, and nail technicians, it is a process with a very important purpose. It ensures that the implements used in these professions remain every bit as safe as they should be.
CDC guidelines for sterilization pouches lay out the proper protocols for these handy tools to ensure they work correctly and remain hygienic. If you’re in a profession that regularly makes use of sterilization pouches, then you should be familiar with what these guidelines are. Read on to find out what the CDC has to say about sterilization pouches and how you should be using them.
Why It’s Good to Keep Things Clean
For dentists, tattoo artists, and other similar professions, keeping things hygienic and sterile is of the utmost importance. Why? Because failure to do so could result in a number of different complications, infections, and even fatalities.
When you’re carrying out treatments that are invasive you run the risk of causing great harm to your clients or patients. Some of the infections that can result from using non-sterile tools include HIV/AIDs, Hepatitis, E. coli, and MRSA. If this does occur, in the best case the infected person will become ill, in the worst case, it is possible they might die.
Needless to say, this is something you do not want to happen. This kind of situation, even if it occurred accidentally, can lead you to having your license revoked.
You could find yourself embroiled in a lawsuit, or even facing jail time. In short, it’s important to keep your tools clean.
CDC Guidelines for Sterilization Pouches
The CDC has strict guidelines about what kind of sterilization methods you can use. It also outlines what kind of materials you should use to store sterile instruments. This will vary based on which sterilization method you’ve opted for.
Packaging materials allow the sterilizing agent to penetrate and sterilize the instrument in question. They also help to maintain the sterility of the processed item after sterilization.
The CDC states that the type of packaging should suit not only the sterilization method but also the instrument being stored. Sterilization pouches are suitable for many different types of instruments. Many models are specially designed to prevent penetration and tearing from sharp instruments.
Sterilization pouches are compatible with many different forms of sterilization. The three most commonly employed methods are: steam autoclave, chemical vapor, and dry heat.
After instruments have been sterilized, they should be stored in a closed drawer or cabinet. When they need to be used, you should perform a visual inspection of the pouch and the item itself before using it. This will ensure the packaging wasn’t tampered with or torn in any way.
Maintaining a Safe and Sterile Environment
For the safety of yourself, your staff, and your clients, you should always be sure to keep your tools safe and sterile. Follow the CDC guidelines for sterilization pouches in order to make sure this is the case. If you’ve found this article interesting, don’t forget to check out the rest of our content.
