Process Reusable Medical Devices And Equipment

Please carefully read through each question posed. In your response, please use terms and phrases that you defined in your previous assessment. Reflect on your learning unit and your own research. Please aim to present 180 words for each response to fully demonstrate your knowledge in this area of study. A minimum of 150 words for each response is required. Please note: Where the word count is not met, your submission will be returned to you for re-working.

1. In your own words, describe the Spaulding classification. List and describe the three categories as devised by Spaulding as well as the level of risk, application, and processes associated with each category.

2. List at least three examples each of critical, non-critical, and semi critical items that you use in the dental surgery.

3. List how used items are prepared for strerilisation in an autoclave. Your response should include preparation of critical and semi-critical instruments using trays and/or cassettes and batch control identification measures. Be sure to provide the required BCI information that is recorded for each cycle as well as the importance of accurate record keeping.

4. There is a range of chemical indicators that can be stored inside packages or attached to the outside of the wrapped package prior to sterilisation. What are chemical indicators? List and describe the intended uses for the six chemical indicator types.

5. List three possible reasons why a pouch that has just been removed from a completed autoclave tray would be considered unsterile and needs to be reprocessed. In the event of the autoclave not functioning within regulation, how and to whom would you report and document the fault/malfunction?

6. Explain why you need to completely remove all blood, saliva, and other debris from instruments before sterilisation can take effect. Describe the methods that may be used in removing all debris prior to sterilisation, including the advantages and disadvantages of each. Which method/s lessen the chance of contamination via aerosol or splatter?

7. There are many different types of chemical waste produced at the dental workspace. These vary between types of equipment and specific cleaning product in use. Safety Data Sheets should be always be referred to when assessing risks. What information do SDS sheets contain?