SiscoCare Guidelines

1. Specification for Buying

• Ensure the choice of material fits the requirements.
• Obtain a certificate of quality from the manufacturer.
• Choose the appropriate surface finish.

2. Storage of Instruments

• Avoid storing instruments in areas with corrosive fumes or chemicals.
• Store instruments in areas with low moisture.
• Clean brand new instruments and remove protective caps.
• Use appropriate racks or containers for storing instruments.

3. Usage

• Clean instruments after every use.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to saline solutions.
• Sterilize both used and unused instruments.

4. Preparation for Disinfection & Cleaning

• Verify the correctness of the delivery.
• Return dry instruments in dry condition from the OT.
• For wet instruments, immerse them in a non-corrosive disinfecting and cleaning solution.
• Release all hinges and latches, and dismantle assembled instruments before cleaning.

5. Reusing Instruments

• Immediately dismantle and immerse used instruments in a pre-disinfection bath. Use hermetically sealed containers for thermal disinfection and cleaning at 93°C for about 10 minutes. For heat-sensitive materials, perform chemo-thermal disinfection at 60°C for about 10 minutes.
• Open the containers at 60'C or lower

6. Pre - Disinfection

• Use cold water only; water over 45°C leads to protein coagulation and cleaning issues. For epidemic hygiene, disinfect first and then clean. For general hygiene, clean first and then disinfect.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommended exposure times, dilution parameters, and concentration levels for optimal cleaning and disinfection. A pH value of 4.5 to 9.5 is recommended. Use ultrasonic cleaners for stubborn stains or encrustations.

7. Washing

• Periodically test water for chloride, silicate, and mineral content.
• Use enzyme-based detergents and follow supplier's dilution instructions. Dissolve particles if using powdered products.
• Perform the final rinse with demineralized water.

8. Drying

• Dry instruments immediately after rinsing or washing.
• Use an air pistol whenever possible.
• Wipe with lint-free paper or cloth.

9. Care of Instruments

• Ensure all instruments are clean and functional.
• Separate instruments that are not functioning correctly or show signs of corrosion and wear.

10. Maintenance for Instruments

• Periodically lubricate hinged, latched, and jointed instruments with lubricating oil.
• Inspect and sharpen the edges of cutting instruments if necessary.
• Inspect carbide tips for wear and replace if required.
• Arrange instruments systematically by size, age, and type (large, bulky, or micro delicate).

11. Conditions for Sterilisation

• Do not overload instrument trays with more than 10 kg.
• Do not mix old and new instruments.
• Place micro and delicate instruments in secure containers.

12. Sterilisation

• Proceed with sterilization if all necessary steps have been followed.
• Use demineralized water if possible. The quality of water and steam is crucial.
• Excessive silicates in water can cause blackening of instruments.
• Excessive chlorides can cause corrosion (chloride levels should be less than 120 mg/L, equivalent to 200 mg/L of NaCl).
• Optimal loading of trays prevents the formation of condensates.