Autoclaves are crucial in laboratories for ensuring that equipment and materials are free from harmful microorganisms. To guarantee that an autoclave functions correctly and sterilizes effectively, several tests are conducted. These tests include calibration, performance qualification, routine monitoring, and record keeping.
What Tests are Done on an Autoclave?
Calibration
Calibration involves determining the actual temperature inside the autoclave when a set temperature is indicated. This is crucial because discrepancies between the set and actual temperatures can occur due to issues with the electronics, temperature probes, or pressure gauges.
Calibration is typically done using internal thermocouples provided with the autoclave. If these are not available, validation with biological indicators (BIs) is used. BIs are considered the "acid test" as they directly confirm the effectiveness of the sterilization process.
Performance Qualification (PQ)
Performance Qualification includes the Autoclave Site Acceptance Test (SAT). This test is conducted by the manufacturer's technician or engineer after delivery, installation, and commissioning of the autoclave.
The SAT involves a chamber validation to confirm the basic functionality of the autoclave. This test uses calibrated and certified thermocouples to ensure the correct time-temperature profile throughout the chamber. It also recalibrates the autoclave’s internal thermocouples if necessary.
The chamber validation must be repeated after each service or at least once per year, with no load present during the test.
Routine Monitoring and Testing
Routine Monitoring and Testing protocols are essential to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the autoclave. This includes regular tests such as the Bowie-Dick test for prevacuum sterilizers.
The Bowie-Dick test checks for air leaks and inadequate air removal. This test is critical as it simulates the conditions of a full load and ensures that steam can effectively penetrate all areas of the load. The Bowie-Dick test is performed daily before the first load is processed.
Additionally, biological indicators are used to test the sterilization process. Recommendations vary from monthly to every 40 hours of use, depending on the type of material being sterilized.
Record Keeping
Record Keeping is also a vital part of the testing process. It involves documenting each autoclave run, including details such as the date, time, operator, type of load, and cycle parameters (temperature, pressure, time).
Records of all maintenance and efficiency tests, along with their results, should be kept to ensure traceability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
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