Surgical Instrument Care & Handling Tips

Tips for Surgical Instrument Care

Use as intended

Misuse of instruments can lead to stress and irreversible damage.

Handle with care

Poor handling can lead to contamination, corrosion and fractures.

Avoid dried residue

Blood and other secretions can cause discolouration and corrosion

Avoid leaving wet

Instruments left in liquid can cause a galvanic current that can lead to galvanic corrosion

Avoid mechanical stress

This can lead to misalignment of instrument parts as well as tension corrosion

Stick to processes

Ensure that routines in the Central Sterilisation Department are strictly followed

Clean as advised

Always adhere to manufacturers instruments for cleaning and sterilisation

Avoid poor servicing

Always use a certified repair facility: inexpert servicing can ruin valuable instruments