LOW TEMPERATURE STERILIZATION-OZONE

OVERVIEW

Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent which is a relatively new low temperature sterilization method available to healthcare facilities

Normal cycles:

1.       Preconditioning
2.       Preheating
3.       Add moisture
4.       Vacuum
5.       Humidification
6.       Inject ozone and allow to sterilize by oxidation
7.       Repeat steps 4-6 once 

Correct loading procedure: 

• Avoid overloading and stacking it will prevent the sterilizing agent from reaching all surfaces of the instrument
• Avoid contact with chamber walls 
•    Use dividers, pins, mats when needed to secure instruments in place to avoid damage during sterilization 
•      Pouches should be placed on edge in wire basket

Routine Monitoring: 

• ·         Physical monitors: time, temperature, O3 concentration and relative humidity
• ·         Chemical indicators: inside and outside
• ·         Biological Indicators: every load 

TROUBLE SHOOTING:

1. The lamp cartridge indicator light on the front of the unit which should remain ON while the unit is operating.

2. The sound or vibration on the aquazone, purifier which would indicate that the air pump is working.

3. Ozone bubbles in the water

4. When the indicator light is off

• -Check GFCI to see if it has tripped
• - check lamp connection, for blown lamp or power supply.

5. When Ozone not present in water

• - Check for filter because a dirty filter will cause a low flow of ozone.
• - Check for clogged jet, block check valve
• - check diffuser stone to see that it has not been fouled

6. When cloudy water with ozone present

• - Check ph balance, clean filter, drain and tanks
• - Use shock treatment to read water excessive contaminants 

OTHER INFORMATION

• Uses O2, purified water and electricity
• Safe for staff and environment
• Process time 4 1/2hrs. at 35C(only one cycle)
• Lumen restrictions (12" x 1/4")
• Anodized rigid containers have been approved

** CAUTION: UNLOADABLE**

·         Natural rubber

·         Latex

·         Textile fabric

·         Copper, brass, bronze, zinc, nickel

·         Implants

·         Flexible endoscope

·         Glass or plastic ampoules

·         Liquid

·         Packaging that creates a solid barrier such as hermetically sealed packs

·         Rigid anodized aluminum