Know your Standards-Part1

How many of you can actually say you are familiar with the standard AS5369 and what is actually written inside it.

Did you know that in section 5.1.3 section e and f there is a very important piece of information that you all need to be aware of.

5.1.3

(e) RMDs/other devices that come into contact with the sterile cavities or are used on the critical aseptic field during invasive procedures shall be considered critical medical devices.  These devices shall be reprocessed to the highest level that they can tolerate between uses on individual patients/clients in accordance with the reprocessing instructions.

(f)Cleaning,  disinfection or sterilisation, as appropriate  of RMDs/other devices shall be performed between uses even if a single use sheath/sleeve/protective barrier is used. Single use sheaths/sleeves/protective barriers for RMDs/other devices shall not be used as a substitute for cleaning ,disinfection or sterilisation.

You as sterile technicians need to know this information as it is vital to maintain patient safety.