Sterilization machines are advanced pieces of technology that kill bacteria in a myriad of ways, protecting patients from infections. Within sterile environments, health care professionals can reuse tools to quickly administer treatment and minimize waste.
Ahead, find out how sterilization machines function and the health care facilities that typically use them.
Steam Sterilization
Steam sterilization, also known as autoclaving, uses high-pressure saturated steam to kill bacteria. By raising the temperature to 121 degrees Celsius or higher, this process denatures proteins and disrupts cell membranes, killing any microorganisms living on the material.
Many health care professionals use this method to sterilize surgical instruments and equipment. The aluminum properties in medical devices make the sterilization process efficient due to their thermal distribution.
Dry Heat Sterilization
Dry heat sterilization is like steam sterilization but penetrates the surface more slowly. It’s a meticulous method that uses high temperatures over extended periods to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. This process dehydrates microorganisms, leading to oxidation and protein denaturation.
Health care facilities may use this method on glassware and metal instruments susceptible to moisture damage. By dehydrating the surface, professionals can mitigate any other contaminating risks on their tools.
Chemical Sterilization
Chemical sterilization uses chemical agents like ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, or peracetic acid to eliminate bacteria. This method is highly effective for heat-sensitive medical equipment, but the chemicals require careful handling due to potential toxicity.
Ethylene oxide, for instance, works by alkylating proteins and DNA, disrupting cellular function and leading to cell death. This works well against microorganisms but could also harm an untrained user. Health care facilities will typically use these machines in specialized industries.
Radiation Sterilization
Radiation sterilization employs ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays or electron beams, to kill bacteria. This method damages the microorganisms’ DNA, preventing them from replicating and leading to their eventual death.
This sterilization method is especially useful for disposable medical supplies and pharmaceuticals that require packaging. Radiation sterilization can penetrate packaging, ensuring sterility without opening containers. It’s a reliable and effective choice for a wide range of industries.
Filtration Sterilization
Filtration sterilization removes bacteria without exposing the elements to heat. These sterilization machines kill bacteria within liquids and gases to protect patients receiving care.
Filtration is highly efficient, with filters capable of removing particles as small as 0.2 micrometers. By using microporous filters that physically trap microorganisms, this process sterilizes heat-sensitive solutions like vaccines and intravenous fluids.
Leverage the different sterilization machines to your advantage at your health care facility. From metallic instruments to liquid vaccines, these machines can protect patients from infections on any tool.
