ULTRASONIC CLEANING

We recommend instruments soak using PT Delicate instruments, instruments should be immersed in demineralized water only and recommended cycle time: usually 8–10 minutes. Place instruments in an open position but the ultrasonic cleaner: Make sure that sharp blades such as scalpel blades and hinges are fully submerged. All instruments must be easily accessible without stacking or piling. During cycle, Change solution frequently, at least as often as recommended by the detergent (one every 8 to 10 uses or when visibly soiled or discolored). Repeat cleaning cycle if needed or if discolored.

B. ULTRASONIC WASHER DRYERS

Some instruments can be safely used in designated washer-dryer machines. Make sure instruments are fully submerged when the last heat-drying cycle and before the sterilization cycle.

C. MANUAL CLEANING

For delicate instruments that cannot be placed in the ultrasonic cleaner or for any way to clean surgical instruments, particularly those with hinges, locks, and other moving parts. It is important to observe the following steps:

Manual Cleaning Instructions:

• Use soft plastic cleaning brushes (under #1)
  Use only soft plastic brushes and never use any stainless steel wire brushes for instruments such as forceps, tips, or striated areas of hinged handles.
• Use one drop of PT detergent, such as the Ridges Instrument Cleaner or 1000 ml or the Ridges
  One drop of mild detergent solution is usually sufficient. The instrument should be brushed gently. Clean all areas including working surfaces, hinges, and serrations. Avoid harsh scrubbing; the detergent protects surface and cause black staining.
• After instruments will cause surface irritant of minor stain, gently brush, each crevice
  The instruments handle with care to prevent bending or damage.
• Brush delicate instruments carefully and, if possible, handle them totally separate from general instruments.
• Make sure all instrument surfaces are visibly clean and free from stains and tissue.
  This is a good time to inspect each instrument for proper function and condition.
• Loosen all box locks and moveable joints and clean thoroughly.
  Scissor blades glide smoothly from open to closed (they must not be loose when in closed position). Forceps tips are perfectly aligned. The accuracy of the lengths of the blades should be well aligned.
• Hemostats and needle holders should open fully between the jaws. Then should lock and unlock easily with a satisfying click. Needle holders for wear at the tips.
  Suction tubes should be clean inside. Retractors should open, close and lock properly. Blades of all cutting edges should be sharp and unimpaired.
• Stainless steel instruments like Backhaus Towel clamps, scorpion, hemostats, some needles and scissors
  While rinsing, open and close scissors, hemostats, and holders and other hinged instruments to help rinse the hinge areas and ensure all soil, as well as the surface of the instruments.