Knowledge Center | STERIS Healthcare

Key Considerations When Selecting a Washer Disinfector

There are several considerations when planning for a washer/disinfector purchase, and it begins with reviewing the devices that need to be processed in that washer/disinfector. What is your current instrument and rigid container inventory? How often does it need to be reprocessed... Read More

Bowie-Dick Tests and Troubleshooting Guide

Bowie-Dick (Air-Removal) tests evaluate the performance of prevacuum sterilizers by confirming adequate air removal from the sterilizer chamber. These air removal test have been improved over the years, but you may be wondering, are Bowie-Dick tests still relevant in sterilizers that have programed leak tests?

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How to Monitor Extended Steam Sterilization Cycles

Extended cycles are specific to steam sterilization where the exposure or dry times of a standard sterilizer cycle (i.e. 270°F for 4 minutes) have been adjusted. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines extended cycles as “any sterilization cycle that includes specifications that deviate from... Read More

What is a Chemical Indicator?

Chemical Indicators (CIs), as defined by AAMI and ISO, are devices used to monitor the presence or attainment of one or more of the parameters required for a satisfactory sterilization process or used in a specific test of sterilization equipment. For example, when placed inside packs, CIs are used to confirm that sterilant achieved good penetration in the items being sterilized. CIs are used as...

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