Improving parametric load release for steam sterilization

Abstract

Current standards and procedures for parametric load release are based on technologies from the 1960s, are consensus based and are often not supported by scientific evidence. In the literature, however, methods are reported which can fairly easily be implemented and improve current parametric load release for steam sterilization. To implement an improved parametric load release procedure, exceeding the current standards and methods for monitoring steam sterilization processes. Implementation of the procedure should be feasible for all interested end-users. The steam sterilization criteria specified in the literature were used to define a set of steam sterilization conditions. A search for commercially available devices and methods which can assess these conditions parametrically was performed. After selecting a method, a field study was carried out. Two devices were identified which could be used to improve parametric load release after a steam sterilization process. A comparison showed that a permanently installed device which - independent from the sterilizer - measures the temperature, the steam composition in the chamber and the time for every steam sterilization process, offers the most advantages. The selected method has been implemented and tested on 51 steam sterilizers. The selected method makes steam sterilization safer, more sustainable, and more cost effective. It can be implemented by all interested end-users.