Spore Testing Your Autoclave: How to Get Clear, Reliable Answers
What Is Autoclave Sterilization?
The autoclave was first developed in the early 19th century as a device for sterilizing equipment and materials. First conceptualized by French microbiologist Charles Chamberland in 1864, the invention of the technology to build a usable autoclave was left to other inventors, including Denis Papin and George Andrew Darby. Charles Chamberland built the first steam autoclave in 1879, creating an innovative temperature and pressure gauge.
By the early 20th century, the introduction of new materials and technologies enabled the development of the steam-heated autoclave. The use of steam allowed autoclaves to reach much higher temperatures and pressures than earlier models, making it more versatile. During World War II, autoclaves were first used to sterilize surgical instruments, dressings, and other medical supplies for the military. Ultimately, steam autoclaves, also known as steam sterilizers, have become commonplace in healthcare and other facilities for sterilization.
Water is heated in the autoclave creating steam which is forced into the sealed chamber at high pressure. The high-pressure steam penetrates through heat-safe materials sterilizing, killing any bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms that may be present.
The sterilization process in an autoclave involves heating the equipment or materials to a specific temperature for a certain period of time. The temperature and time will vary depending on the material type and the level of necessary sterilization. For example, 121°C (250°F) for 15 minutes sterilizes many medical instruments, while some laboratory equipment may require longer times or higher temperatures.
Autoclaves come in various sizes and designs for multiple applications, including sterilizing medical and dental instruments and laboratory equipment. Non-clinical practitioners serving customers also use autoclaves to sterilize instruments, including tattoo and body piercing shops and nail salons.
The Correct Answer: Spore Testing
Spore testing is the best way to determine the effectiveness of sterilization in an autoclave.
Spore testing involves introducing a known number of bacterial spores, which are highly resistant to heat and other sterilizing agents. Biological indicators containing spores are set on a special paper or in a vial. Place biological indicators in the autoclave along with the equipment or materials to be sterilized. After the complete sterilization cycle, remove the equipment or materials from the autoclave. Place the spores from the indicator in a growth medium; if spores have germinated and grown, the sterilization process was ineffective. Be sure to follow the instructions for use included with your biological indicator.
Geobacillus stearothermophilus is typically used in biological indicators because it is highly heat-resistant and widely found in the natural environment.
Run a spore test at least weekly and ideally each day the sterilizer is used (CDC). Also, perform spore tests after any repairs or maintenance on the autoclave to ensure it is in working order. Use biological indicators in any loads containing implantable devices. Best practice encourages the use of biological indicators in every load.
Easy to use Biological Indicators
Duo Spore® Biological Indicator Test is available with or without Culture Service. If your facility has a laboratory that can process biological indicator strips, you can use Duo Spore® without processing. Alternatively, you can utilize the Propper Laboratory with Duo Spore® with Culture Service.
Biological Test Pack with Culture Service is a complete done-for-you service. Fully assembled test packs are provided, eliminating the need to assemble a test pack before processing. After processing, simply mail the processed indicators to the Propper Manufacturing Company Laboratory. You will receive your results in our secure portal within 48 hours of receipt of the indicators.
Autoclaves are an effective way to sterilize surgical equipment. They are an important part of an infection prevention protocol. In combination with practicing proper hand hygiene, cleaning surfaces, and other infection prevention measures, we can have a meaningful impact on the reduction of Hospital Acquired Infections. Therefore, you must routinely use spore testing to confirm your sterilizer is working properly.
Go to Propper Academy to Learn More
Check out Propper Academy presentation to learn more about the importance of spore testing and biological monitoring in steam sterilization:
Wait a Minute Mr. Postman on February 23rd at 1pm ET to learn more about the importance of spore testing and biological monitoring.
To mail or not to mail? That is the question when it comes to biological indicator (BI) testing in many clinical settings around the country — physician offices, dental clinics, and veterinary services. What is the best option for sterilization monitoring for your facility? What are the pros and cons of mail-in BI testing versus on-site incubation and monitoring? This presentation will address these questions and provide insight for clinic managers and technicians to make informed decisions regarding this critical aspect of quality management.
Objectives:
- Discuss the purpose & function of biological indicator monitoring for steam sterilization.
- Compare the processes of mail-in biological indicator monitoring and on-site incubation and monitoring.
- Describe the key quality management considerations in favor of on-site incubation.
- Provide insights to hardwire training, competence, and compliance regarding your biological monitoring process.
This course is approved to receive 1.0 CE from CBSPD and HSPA.