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Steam autoclave (tabletop steam sterilizer)

Also called: autoclave, steam sterilizer, gravity autoclave

A pressure chamber that kills all germs on instruments with hot steam.

The autoclave (a steam sterilizer) is the main sterilizer in most dental offices. It heats water into steam under pressure, and the steam kills every kind of germ, including spores (the toughest germs). Most tabletop dental autoclaves are gravity displacement units, which means the steam pushes the cooler air out through a vent. Common minimum settings are 121 C (250 F) for 30 minutes in a gravity unit, but always use the cycle your machine's manufacturer sets.

How to spot it

  • A metal box about the size of a microwave with a round or square door that locks shut.
  • A water reservoir you fill from the top, and a display or gauges for temperature, pressure and time.
  • Trays or racks inside for pouches and cassettes.

What it is used for

  • Sterilizes packaged instruments, cassettes and handpieces that can take heat and moisture.
  • Runs several loads a day; each load gets its mechanical readings checked and its chemical indicators read.
  • Gets a spore test (biological indicator) at least weekly and with every load that holds an implant.

Safety and care

  • Use only distilled or mineral-free water in the reservoir, as the manual directs; tap water leaves mineral deposits.
  • Steam and the chamber are hot enough to burn. Let the cycle finish and let packs dry inside before you touch them.
  • Do not overload. Place pouches on their edge so steam can reach every surface.
  • Daily and weekly care (for example wiping the door gasket, changing reservoir water, cleaning the chamber) follows the manufacturer's instructions.

Related

Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), CDC. Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008): Steam Sterilization, CDC. Dental Infection Prevention FAQs: Sterilization Monitoring, Tuttnauer. Tabletop autoclave operation and maintenance manual, manual units (MAN205-0007000EN Rev. 27), CDC. Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008): Sterilizing Practices