Sterilization is not just “cleaning” — it is the complete elimination of all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores, which are the most resistant. In infection control, sterilization is the highest level of decontamination and is critical for patient safety, especially in surgical and invasive procedures.
Key Principles of Sterilization:
1️⃣ Pre-cleaning & Preparation
- Organic matter (blood, tissue, secretions) must be removed first.
- Proper cleaning is the foundation — if an item is not clean, it cannot be sterilized.
2️⃣ Methods of Sterilization
- Steam Sterilization (Autoclaving): Gold standard; effective for heat- and moisture-resistant instruments.
- Low-Temperature Methods: Ethylene oxide (ETO), Hydrogen peroxide plasma, Peracetic acid — used for heat-sensitive items.
- Dry Heat Sterilization: For specific instruments and powders.
3️⃣ Monitoring Sterilization Effectiveness
- Mechanical Indicators: Cycle parameters (time, temperature, pressure).
- Chemical Indicators: External & internal strips confirm exposure.
- Biological Indicators: The gold standard, using Bacillus spores to validate sterility assurance.
4️⃣ Sterile Storage & Handling
- Sterile packs must be stored in clean, dry, controlled environments.
- Always check integrity of packaging and indicator results before use.
Why it matters?
- Breakdown in sterilization processes leads to surgical site infections (SSIs), outbreaks, and patient harm. As healthcare professionals, adherence to sterilization standards is not optional — it is a duty.
- Effective infection control leadership requires continuous training, strict monitoring, and a culture of accountability in Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD).
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Pharmacy