In any healthcare setting, infection control is the highest priority. Sterilizers and autoclaves are the unsung heroes of the operating room and clinical environment, ensuring that surgical instruments and reusable devices are free from harmful microorganisms. However, these complex machines require regular, specialized care to function correctly.
At Auxo Medical, we specialize in sterilizer and autoclave sales, service, and maintenance. We know that a malfunctioning autoclave can bring your facility’s operations to a grinding halt. Here is our comprehensive guide to essential sterilizer and autoclave maintenance.
Why Regular Autoclave Maintenance is Non-Negotiable
Sterilization failure is a severe patient safety risk. If an autoclave is not reaching the correct temperature or pressure, or if there is residual bio-burden in the chamber, surgical instruments may not be properly sterilized. Routine maintenance prevents these catastrophic failures, ensures compliance with regulatory bodies like The Joint Commission and AAMI, and extends the lifespan of your expensive capital equipment.
Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Maintenance Tasks
To keep your autoclaves running smoothly, your facility’s staff should perform routine checks in between professional preventative maintenance visits.
Daily Maintenance
- Clean the Chamber:Â Wipe down the interior of the autoclave chamber daily with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to prevent the buildup of rust, scale, and debris.
- Check the Door Gasket:Â Inspect the door gasket for visible wear, cuts, or debris. A clean, intact gasket is essential for maintaining proper pressure.
- Inspect the Strainer:Â Clean the chamber strainer to ensure proper drainage and prevent clogs that could cause wet packs.
Weekly Maintenance
- Biological Indicator Testing:Â Run a biological indicator (BI) test weekly (or as required by your facility’s protocols) to verify that the autoclave is actually killing microorganisms.
- Clean the Exterior:Â Wipe down the exterior surfaces and control panels.
Monthly Maintenance
- Flush the Generator:Â If your autoclave has a steam generator, flush it monthly to remove mineral scale buildup, which can severely impact heating efficiency.
- Check Plumbing Connections:Â Visually inspect water supply and drain lines for leaks, kinks, or wear.
The Importance of Professional Preventative Maintenance
While in-house daily cleaning is vital, it cannot replace professional preventative maintenance (PM). During a professional PM visit, our Auxo Medical certified technicians perform comprehensive tasks that require specialized tools and training, including:
- Calibration of Temperature and Pressure Sensors:Â Ensuring the machine reads and operates at exact specifications.
- Inspection of Steam Traps and Valves:Â Checking for blockages or leaks that affect sterilization efficacy.
- Electrical Component Inspection:Â Tightening connections and checking for worn wiring to prevent sudden electrical failures.
- Deep Cleaning of Internal Components:Â Removing scale and debris from internal plumbing and heating elements that are inaccessible to staff.
Don’t Wait for a Breakdown Contact Auxo Medical Today!
Reactive maintenance is always more expensive and disruptive than preventative care. When your autoclave goes down, you face emergency repair costs, the expense of outsourcing sterilization, and potential surgical delays. At Auxo Medical, we offer tailored preventative maintenance contracts designed to keep your sterilization department running without a hitch. Let us help you protect your patients and your bottom line. Contact Auxo Medical today by calling our office at (888) 728-8448 or contact us by filling out the form below.
