spray solution, make sure it's non-aerosolizing to reduce the risk of
inhalation. Employees must also wear the appropriate personal pro-
tective equipment based on the cleaner's IFU.
• Low foam. Look for low-foaming solutions, since foam can make rins-
ing more difficult and reduce the effectiveness of automatic washers.
• Expiration date. Enzymes are proteins, and enzymes can break down
proteins, so they can become less effective over time.
• Bottles or pre-moistened? While most cleaners come in large bottles that
require proper dilution for use, you can buy sponges or brushes that
are pre-moistened with the correct concentration for cleaning an
instrument. Though pricey, these can help ensure techs are using the
proper concentration.
• Price. I know there are budget constraints, especially in central ster-
ile departments, but you should work to minimize the impact this has
on selecting a suitable and effective solution. Prices can vary greatly,
so work with your vendor to narrow down the best options that fit
your budget. Patient safety should always come first and should
always be your top interest. Enzymatic cleaners are the gold standard
for removing blood, tissue and other bodily matter to prepare the
instrument for high-level disinfection or sterilization. They're your
first line of defense, and therefore worth the investment.
OSM
7 4 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 6
Mr. Daigle (daigle@uchc.edu) is the supervisor of the sterile processing depart-
ment at the UConn Medical Center in Farmington, Conn., and serves as the presi-
dent of the Connecticut Central Service Association.
