Following the training of new sterilization personnel.When a new type of packaging material or tray is used.In addition to weekly testing, equipment users should also perform biological monitoring after the following: Proper functioning of cycles should be verified for each sterilizer. Biological: indicators (BIs) determine whether the most resistant microorganisms are present.Īccording to the CDC and ADA, spore testing should be performed at least weekly.Chemical: indicators use sensitive chemicals to assess physical conditions, such as temperature, during the sterilization process.Mechanical: techniques include assessing the cycle time, temperature, and pressure of sterilization equipment.Sterilization procedures should be monitored through a combination of mechanical, chemical, and biological techniques: Noncritical instruments: instruments such as x-ray heads, blood pressure cuffs, and pulse oximeters that come into contact with intact skin.Semi-critical instruments: instruments that contact mucous membranes such as mirrors, reusable impression trays, and amalgam condensers.Critical instruments: instruments used to penetrate bone, soft tissue, and that have contact with the bloodstream or sterile tissue.The classifications are critical, semi-critical, and noncritical, which are based on the following criteria: Each category includes very specific sterilization guidelines detailed in the CDC guidelines for infection control. These standards should apply regardless of whether the patient is in an acute-care hospital, ambulatory surgical center, outpatient facility, dental office, or physician’s office.Īccording to the CDC, dental instruments are classified into three categories depending upon the level of risk for infection transmission. Understanding and implementing these sterilization methods, in addition to consistent monitoring, helps to ensure effective sterilization, patient safety, and cost-effectiveness. The federal guidelines for infection control and sterilization specify that weekly spore tests should be performed and the results filed. The American Dental Association urges all dental practices to employ these infection control procedures and guidelines to prevent infections and reduce the risk of disease transmission.ĪDDITIONAL READING | Infection Control Q and A: Instrument processingĭisinfection and sterilization are essential for ensuring that medical and surgical instruments do not transmit infectious pathogens to patients. The 2003 Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines provide evidence-based infection control practices relevant to the dental industry. When infection control procedures are not followed, there is a risk that infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV can be transmitted.
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