Instrument Processing Workflow
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  • INSTRUMENT PROCESSING WORKFLOW
    Instrument processing is a critical part of any infection prevention protocol. Even with a designated area for instrument processing, there’s a chance the workflow design may not be organized efficiently. Following a dirty-to-clean instrument processing workflow recommended by the CDC can help contain contamination and maximize the efficiency of your instrument cleaning and sterilizing process.
    • PREPARATION + PACKAGING
    • RECEIVING + CLEANING
    • STERILIZATION
    • MONITORING/STERILITY ASSURANCE
    • STORAGE
  • STRAIGHT LINE
    The straight-line layout can help you create an efficient, standardized 5-step instrument processing workflow. The linear design creates a clear flow path from dirty to clean, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.
  • U-SHAPED
    For facilities with a larger procedure volume, the instrument processing area must be large enough for the necessary equipment. The u-shaped workspace design provides ample space and surface areas, allowing more staff in the room while maintaining a clear flow from dirty to clean.
  • GALLEY
    The galley layout consists of workspaces on two opposing walls with a single traffic lane between. This arrangement allows for easy access and an efficient workflow. This design can help staff keep the process moving using a linear flow from dirty to clean while also keeping everything within reach.
  • L-SHAPED
    An L-shaped counter arrangement maximizes use of available space where elbow room is limited. The space you have can be all you need for a better instrument processing workflow.
<div class="col-lg-12" style="margin-top:30px;"><div class="col-lg-5"><a data-sf-ec-immutable="" href="https://vimeo.com/404734072" target="_blank"><img src="/images/default-source/medical-img/midmark-clinical-solutions/play.png?sfvrsn=fb87b451_2" style="display:block;margin:0px auto;max-width:80px;" alt="" /></a> </div><div class="col-lg-7"><div><p style="font-weight:bold;font-size:1.2em;text-transform:uppercase;font-family:'nexa_boldregular','Helvetica','Arial',sans-serif;color:#000000;">VIDEO</p><p style="font-size:14px;color:#000000;">5 Steps to Avoiding Cross-Contamination in Your IP Workflow</p><p><a data-sf-ec-immutable="" href="https://vimeo.com/404734072" class="cta" target="_blank">WATCH VIDEO</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></div></div></div><div class="col-lg-12"><div class="col-lg-5"><a href="63b2d542-d832-4f17-a806-18a097b7158006-18a097b71580&-18a097b7158006-18a097b71580&" target="_blank"><img src="/images/default-source/medical-img/midmark-clinical-solutions/proof-point-icon-mcs.png?sfvrsn=7598a0aa_0" style="display:block;margin:0px auto;max-width:80px;" alt="" /></a> </div><div class="col-lg-7"><div><p style="font-weight:bold;font-size:1.2em;text-transform:uppercase;font-family:'nexa_boldregular','Helvetica','Arial',sans-serif;color:#000000;">INFOGRAPHIC</p><p style="font-size:14px;color:#000000;">Taking a Holistic Approach to Protect Patients + Staff at the Point of Care </p><p><a href="/docs/default-source/resource-library/medical/infection-prevention-taking-a-holistic-approach.pdf?sfvrsn=e26bfd40_2" style="margin-top:0px;" class="cta" target="_blank">VIEW INFOGRAPHIC</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></div></div></div><div class="col-lg-12"><div class="col-lg-5"><a href="/docs/default-source/documents/designing-for-prevention-three-steps.pdf?sfvrsn=19794b57_3" target="_blank"><img src="/images/default-source/medical-img/midmark-clinical-solutions/proof-point-icon-mcs.png?sfvrsn=7598a0aa_0" style="display:block;margin:0px auto;max-width:80px;" alt="" /></a> </div><div class="col-lg-7"><div><p style="font-weight:bold;font-size:1.2em;text-transform:uppercase;font-family:'nexa_boldregular','Helvetica','Arial',sans-serif;color:#000000;">WHITE PAPER</p><p style="font-size:14px;color:#000000;">Designing for Prevention: 3 Steps to Enhance Your IP Program </p><p><a href="/docs/default-source/documents/designing-for-prevention-three-steps.pdf?sfvrsn=19794b57_3" style="margin-top:0px;" class="cta" target="_blank">READ WHITE PAPER</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></div></div></div><div class="col-lg-12"><div class="col-lg-5"><a href="/docs/default-source/resource-library/medical/efficient-vital-signs-acquisition.pdf?sfvrsn=6a0b20b3_4" target="_blank"><img src="/images/default-source/webp/medical/design-center/products-icon.png?sfvrsn=fe3755f7_3" style="display:block;margin:0px auto;max-width:80px;" alt="products icon" sf-size="2612" /></a> </div><div class="col-lg-7"><div><p style="font-weight:bold;font-size:1.2em;text-transform:uppercase;font-family:'nexa_boldregular','Helvetica','Arial',sans-serif;color:#000000;">PRODUCTS</p><p style="font-size:14px;color:#000000;">Explore the Products Behind the Workflow </p><p><a href="/medical/products" style="margin-top:0px;" class="cta" target="_blank">VIEW NOW</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></div></div></div><p><sub><sup>1 https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/sterilizing-practices.html</sup></sub></p>
  • RECEIVING + CLEANING
  • PREPARATION + PACKAGING
  • STERILIZATION
  • MONITORING/STERILITY ASSURANCE
  • STORAGE
Replay

Cleaned, dried instruments and other supplies should be inspected for residual debris and damage, assembled into sets or trays, and wrapped or packaged for sterilization.

Reusable instruments, supplies and equipment should be received, cleaned and disinfected in one section of the processing environment.

The sterilization area should include the sterilizer and related supplies with adequate space for loading and unloading the sterilizer. Follow the instructions for use (IFU) on cleaning and sterilizing for each instrument.

Mechanical, chemical and biological monitoring should be used to ensure the efficacy of the sterilization process. Results of sterilization need to be recorded.

The storage area should be adequately sized, closed or covered, and located apart from contaminated instruments in an area protected from moisture. Supplies and instruments should not be stored under the sink.