How to Clean Laparoscopic Instruments
Laparoscopic instruments are used in surgeries that are considered minimally invasive. The instruments are used for several purposes, including as cutting and grasping tissue. Laparoscopic instruments need to be cleaned before being put into an autoclave machine (a machine that sterilizes equipment with intense heat). This task can be daunting because special is needed. Such instruments are fragile, and can be easily broken.Things You'll Need
- Deionized water
- Enzymatic cleaner (such as Endozime)
- Scrub brushes
- Latex gloves
- Water soluble lubricant
- Ultra sonic cleaning machine
- Syringe
- Washer
Instructions
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Cleaning
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1
Put on a pair of latex gloves. According to Instrumental to Patient Care, you should take your instruments and soak them in an enzymatic solution for at least five minutes. You may need to soak the instruments longer when there is heavy debris present.
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2
Take out the instruments and rinse them in deionized water. Deionized water is water that doesn't contain ions.
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3
Use a soft-bristled scrub brush to begin cleaning the surfaces of your instruments. Get in between crevices to thoroughly clean out debris. Small-bristled brushes work best to get in between crevices.
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4
Once you're done scrubbing, use deionized water to rinse the instruments. Use enzymatic solution to flush out debris from hard-to-reach spots. You can use a syringe filled with enzymatic cleaner to force out debris.
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5
Place your instruments in an ultrasonic cleaning machine to finish removing debris. Instruments should be agitated for five minutes in water that is no hotter than 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
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6
Place your instruments in an instrument washer as directed by your manufacturer's cleaning manual. Allow your instruments to thoroughly dry before autoclaving.
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Lubricate your instruments in a water-soluble lubricant before your instruments are to be autoclaved. According to B&H Surgical: "Laparoscopic Reference Guide," instruments that are prepped for autoclaving should be done so at 270 degrees Fahrenheit for up to 10 minutes.
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Allow your instruments to air dry. Once they are dry, store the instruments in a dry place and keep them away from humidity.
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