IDI - Irish Decontamination Institute

Central Service - Issue 5/2010

NEWS UPDATE

• What's New in Standardization: Technical Committee (TC)
• 11th World Sterilization Conference, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 30 July - 1 August 2010
• Infection Prevention Seminar
• Medical Device Reprocessing in Germany - 17 years of Medical Devices Act. DGSV Congress, 7 - 9 October 2010, Fulda
• The Life of Others - Helmut Pahlke: 7 June 1949 - 30 September 2010

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

A. Jamet, M. Lafaurie, A.V. Lebelle-Dehaut:
Optimization and Monitoring of the Cleaning Parameters in a Multichamber Washer-Disinfector

Abstract
In view of the paramount importance of the cleaning step in the sterilization process, the ability to control the different parameters of this step appears necessary. The cleaning step in the sterilization process is of vital importance but, unlike disinfection, cleaning is not standardized. The cleaning parameters are represented by the Sinner Circle: chemical action, mechanical action, temperature and time. Having noticed deviations in three of these parameters in our tunnel washer, several hypotheses were tested to determine their origin. Remedial action was then taken and a monitoring plan devised. This monitoring plan was based henceforth on five indicators that thus covered the entire cleaning process. Statistical process control, commercially available tests as well as measuring probes are the tools currently used by us for continuous monitoring of the cleaning process.

J. Barion:
Inspection of Medical Device Reprocessing in Hospitals

Abstract
Since 2003 medical device reprocessing in North Rhine-Westphalia has been systematically monitored by the competent authorities. Comparison of the findings from the years 2004/2005 with those of 2008/2009 shows that there has been a marked improvement in conditions and practices in the Central Service Supply Departments (CSSDs).

RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendations by the Quality Task Group (AK »Qualität«): Using Ultrasonic Basins to Reprocess Medical Devices - Part 2

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