Hostname: page-component-586b7cd67f-dsjbd Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-11-30T20:24:33.170Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

When the Biological Indicator Is Positive: Investigating Autoclave Failures

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 March 2016

Abstract

A series of positive biological indicators in steam autoclaves from different hospital departments within the same building were traced to blocked steam traps on building condensate lines. The steps taken during the investigation and a protocol for management of positive biological indicators are described.

Type
Concise Communications
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America 1997

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

1. Perkins, JJ. Principles and Methods of Sterilization in Health Sciences. 2nd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas; 1969.Google Scholar
2. Canadian Standards Association. Effective sterilization in hospitals by the steam process. CAN/CSA-Z314.3-M91. Rexdale, Ontario, Canada: Canadian Standards Association; 1991.Google Scholar
3. Gardner, JF, Peel, MM. Introduction to Sterlizationn and Disinfection. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 1986:6482.Google Scholar
4. Crow, S. Steam sterilizers: an evolution in design. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 1993;14:488491.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed
5. Epstein, BJ, Lattimer, JM, Matsen, JM, Garibaldi, RA. False-positive spore strip sterility tests with steam sterilization. Am J Infect Control 1983;11:7173.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed