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Instrument washer-disinfector
Also called: instrument washer, thermal disinfector
A dishwasher-like machine that washes instruments and disinfects them with hot water.
A washer-disinfector is an automatic machine that cleans instruments and then thermally disinfects them (kills many germs with high heat). It cuts down on hand contact with sharp, dirty instruments. Instruments still need to be inspected, packaged and sterilized afterward.
How to spot it
- Looks like a kitchen dishwasher, often built under a counter, with pull-out wire racks.
- Racks hold cassettes, baskets and special holders for small items.
What it is used for
- Cleans and disinfects instruments before drying, inspection and packaging.
- Loaded following the manufacturer's loading diagrams so water reaches every surface.
Safety and care
- Wear PPE when loading dirty instruments; unload with care, items may be hot.
- Use only detergents the manufacturer approves and follow its maintenance schedule.
Related
Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17)