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The case for low temperature sterilisation

Low temperature sterilisation could meet the conflicting demands of tougher infection control guidelines and ever more delicate medical devices.

How do healthcare facilities meet the conflicting demands of tougher infection control guidelines and regulations and increasingly delicate hi-tech medical devices? Faster, more effective, low temperature sterilisation is a big part of the answer, says Dean Burand, Divisional Regulatory Affairs manager at specialist in instrument decontamination and sterilisation, IHSS.

Medical technology is undergoing a period of dramatic change. The design, construction and functionality of modern medical devices has been revolutionised by microprocessor technology, new materials, and increasing miniaturisation. The latest generations of devices – from highly sophisticated endoscopes and transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) probes, to robotic surgical devices like the da Vinci robotic surgical system – are transforming diagnostic and treatment options, and improving outcomes for patients. 

However, alongside these new opportunities come new challenges. Nosocomial infections are a significant source of risk for patients, and a growing concern for clinical staff and regulators, and while our understanding of the nature and transmission mechanisms of pathogens has improved considerably, the changing characteristics of many advanced medical devices are making effective sterilisation and decontamination more difficult. The disinfection principles and procedures used today can trace their origins back to the work of American physician, Earle Spaulding, in the 1930s. He established three levels of disinfection requirement, depending on whether an instrument comes into contact with ntact skin, mucous membranes, or sterile body cavities. 

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Upcoming Events

The Fire Safety Event 2024

National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham
30th April - 2 May 2024

Wales regional conference, exhibition and awards dinner 2024

International Conference Centre (ICC) Newport
28th - 29th May 2024

NAHFO National Conference 2024

Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne
3rd - 5th June 2024

Design in Mental Health 2024

Manchester Central
4th - 5th June 2024

InstallerSHOW 2024

National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham
25th - 27th June

Healthcare Estates 2024

Manchester Central
8th-9th October 2024

Access the latest issue of Health Estate Journal on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Health Estate Journal app from your device's App store

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