How to Maintain an Autoclave

Properly using and maintaining an autoclave ensures that medical instruments are sterilized according to the highest infection control standards. Although most surgical equipment today is made of stainless steel, proper care is still required to make sure your autoclave performs the necessary functions in creating a sterile environment.

Things You'll Need

• Scrub brush
• Cleaning detergent

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Instructions

• 1

  Learn about your autoclave. Get to know how the machine works by reading all the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly. Knowing all of your autoclave's parts and functions will make it easier to maintain and fix.

• 2

  Thoroughly clean the autoclave daily. Use a brush detergent to clean the outer screen of the autoclave. Use a nonabrasive cleaner to avoid scratching the steel inside the machine. Check the gaskets and replace when necessary.

• 3

  Perform weekly maintenance on the autoclave regularly. Remove the outlet screen and flush the exhaust line with soapy warm water. Follow this with rinsing the exhaust line in clear hot water.

• 4

  Check that the temperature of the inside of the autoclave is being reached periodically. This will ensure that all viruses and bacteria are killed on the instruments being autoclaved.