Most autoclave users rely on visual and mechanical indicators as routine verification for each autoclave run. They are used to determine if the sterilization cycle parameters were sufficient to kill the test microorganisms. Biological indicators are composed of a standardized population of heat-resistant bacterial spores such as Geobacillus stearothermophilus, most commonly in the form of spore vials.Mechanical indicators are integrated into the autoclave and record the time-temperature-pressure profile attained during a cycle.Note that the color change does not assure decontamination effectiveness it only verifies that the outside of the container came to temperature and does not reflect conditions inside the load. If the tape fails to change color, this alerts the user that there is a problem. This indicates that a temperature of 121☌ has been achieved. The most commonly used visual indicator is autoclave tape, which contains a heat-sensitive ink that changes color from white to a visible pattern following processing. Visual indicators (chemical/tape) measure one or more physical conditions of the autoclave cycle.Proper cycle parameters for effective decontamination of infectious waste are done using autoclave indicators and performing validation procedures.Īutoclave indicators are devices used to check the performance of an autoclave and confirm or validate that certain performance standards have been met. The tighter the autoclave is packed, the longer it will take to reach 121☌ in the center of the load. If the waste is packed too tightly or it is a very large load, the length of the sterilization time may need to be increased to allow the steam to penetrate the center of the load. Studies have shown that the processing time necessary to achieve decontamination of biological material depends on several factors: load size, type of container, and moisture content. Autoclaving Biological WasteĪlthough minimum autoclave parameters of 15 minutes (excluding exhaust time) at 121☌/250☏ at 15 psi may achieve sterilization, it is recommended that biological waste run times are extended to at least 60 minutes to assure that the waste has been appropriately decontaminated. For information on how to safely operate an autoclave see Autoclave Safety and Operation.
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