Precautions after high-pressure steam sterilization

23/07/2026
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High-pressure steam sterilization features fast sterilization speed, reliable efficacy, high temperature and strong penetration. However, improper handling of sterilized items after sterilization may lead to sterilization failure. Relevant precautions are specified as follows.

1. Unloading and inspection of sterilized items

1. Take out the sterilized items and inspect the integrity of the packages.

2. Check whether the chemical indicator tapes or indicator cards meet the sterilization qualification requirements.

3. Any sterilized items that fall on the ground, are placed in unqualified areas, or get wet shall be deemed contaminated, and all wet packs are invalid.

4. Complete and sign the sterilizer operation record form truthfully.

2. Registration and management of sterilized items

1. Sterile items and non-sterile items shall be placed separately to avoid confusion and cross-contamination.

2. All disinfection labels must be clear and complete, including item name, validity period, responsible person and reviewer. Items with unclear labels or incomplete records are not allowed to be issued for use.

3. Sterile items shall be kept clean, dry and pollution-free during transmission. Special trolleys (sterile item trolley and clean item trolley) in the disinfection room shall be wiped and disinfected with disinfectant daily and marked clearly for classification use.

3. Storage requirements for sterile items

1. The sterile room shall be well-ventilated, dry and equipped with outward exhaust devices.

2. Conduct regular cleaning and disinfection for the indoor environment, storage cabinets and shelves of the sterile room in accordance with specifications.

3. Only fixed full-time staff are allowed to enter the sterile room. Before entry, staff shall wash hands, wear masks and change shoes, and strictly abide by sterile operating procedures. Unrelated personnel are prohibited from entering.

4. Placement specifications for sterile items:

A. Keep a distance of no less than 50 cm from the ceiling to ensure air circulation and keep away from air outlets and fire sprinklers;

B. Keep a distance of no less than 20 cm from the ground to reduce dust contamination and facilitate cleaning;

C. Keep a distance of no less than 5 cm from the wall to prevent bacterial growth caused by close contact with the wall.

5. Sterile items shall be placed by category with fixed positions and clear marks, and used in chronological order of sterilization date.

6. Inspect the sterilization date and storage status of sterile packs daily. Any expired or damp items shall be repackaged and re-sterilized.

4. Validity period of sterile items

A. Cotton cloth packaging: 14 days

B. Non-woven fabric packaging: 6 months

C. Paper-plastic pouch packaging: 6 months

D. Hard container box: 6 months

E. Medical crepe paper: 6 months

F. Medical disposable paper bag: 1 month

5. Issuance management of sterile stems

1. Verify the consistency between the item name on the label and the actual item.

2. Confirm that the validity period on the label matches the packaging material of the sterile item.

3. Items can only be issued after double-person verification.

4. Once sterile items are issued, they are strictly prohibited from being returned.

ZEALWAY is a leading professional provider of sterilization solutions. With more than 20 years of focus on the research and development, manufacturing and service of sterilization equipment, we are committed to providing complete sterilization solutions for customers with high standards for safety, quality, performance and functionality.

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