Introduction

This policy outlines the procedures and protocols for the sterilisation of surgical and medical instruments at Dockside Medical Hub. The clinic is committed to maintaining high infection control standards to ensure patient safety and compliance with healthcare regulations.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff involved in the sterilisation and handling of surgical and medical instruments, including doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and clinical staff.

Definitions

Responsibilities

• All staff involved in sterilisation must follow this policy at all times.
• The designated Sterilisation Officer is responsible for compliance and supervision.
• Sterilisation records must be accurately maintained and monitored.
• All staff must receive training in sterilisation and infection control procedures.
• Proper handling and storage of sterile instruments must be maintained.
• Broken or damaged instruments must be reported immediately.
• Any incidents involving contamination must be documented and investigated.
• Staff must follow all safety procedures while handling sterile equipment.

Sterilisation Procedures

• All instruments must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before being packed into autoclave packaging.
• Instrument packs must be labelled with the sterilisation date and serial number before processing.
• Instruments are sterilised using an autoclave according to manufacturer instructions and approved healthcare guidelines.
• After sterilisation and cooling, instrument packs are stored in clean, dry storage areas.
• Each sterilisation cycle must be recorded in the Autoclave Log Book.
• Details of instrument usage including clinician, patient, date, and procedure information must be documented.
• Any abnormal incidents or sterilisation failures must be reported immediately and instruments must be re-sterilised as per protocol.