Steam Sterilization: Best Practices for CSSD Teams
17 July 2024

Effective sterilization depends on correct cleaning, packing, loading and monitoring. Small mistakes can compromise patient safety.

Clean before you sterilize

Residual soil protects microorganisms from steam. Always clean and dry instruments thoroughly.

Load correctly

Avoid overloading, place pouches on edge and allow space for steam circulation.

Monitor every cycle

Use Bowie-Dick tests daily, chemical indicators in every pack and biological indicators weekly.