Instrument Decontamination Methods that Prolong Instrument Life

Understanding pH

One measurement used to characterize instrument cleaners is pH-- the balance of alkalinity to acidity.  A scale of 1 to 14 is used.  On the scale, 7 represents neutral or equal balance, and as the scale decreases from 7 to 1, the acid strength increases.  When the scale grows from 7 to 14, the alkalinity strength grows.  Ideally, all cleaning would be done with a neutral (pH 7) chemistry.   Unfortunately this cleaning is not possible.  Often, acid or alkaline boosting is needed to accomplish a particular cleaning task.

Cleaners with an acid pH most effectively remove inorganic substances, such as mineral deposits.  Organic substances, such as tissue or blood, are best removed with an alkaline pH solution.  After identifying the soil and making the acid or alkaline choice, select the appropriate strength solution.

Avoid Instrument Trauma

An ideal decontamination process gets instruments clean without causing unnecessary chemical or physical trauma to the instruments' surfaces.  Excess alkalinity of detergents can cause problems.  Amounts above 2% are not recommended.   Washers/decontaminators may wash with high alkalinity detergents.  This wash is acceptable if instruments are rinsed immediately with an acid or water to bring the surface back to a neutral pH balance.  Physical trauma can be caused by overloading instrument trays or rough handling.

[ Next ]