Quality control at the Material and Sterilization Center (CME) is an essential component to ensure patient safety and the effectiveness of medical procedures. The CME is responsible for the cleaning, disinfection and sterilization of all medical instruments used in a healthcare environment. Therefore, maintaining a high standard of quality is critical to preventing the transmission of infections and ensuring the best patient care.
Quality control at CME involves several steps, including instrument cleaning and disinfection, sterilization, proper storage of sterilized instruments, regular maintenance and checking of sterilization equipment, and ongoing employee training.
>Cleaning and Disinfection
The first step in quality control at CME is the proper cleaning and disinfection of the instruments. This involves removing all biological and chemical residues from the instruments, followed by the application of an appropriate disinfectant. Cleaning and disinfection must be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the instrument manufacturers and by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA).
Sterilization
After cleaning and disinfection, the instruments are sterilized to eliminate all viable microorganisms. There are several methods of sterilization, including moist heat (autoclave), dry heat, gas (ethylene oxide), radiation (gamma rays or electron beam), and liquid chemicals. The sterilization method used depends on the type of instrument material and its resistance to heat and humidity. Sterilization must be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the instrument manufacturers and ANVISA.
Storage
After sterilization, instruments must be stored properly to ensure they remain sterile until the time of use. This includes using proper packaging to protect instruments from contamination and maintaining proper storage conditions such as controlled temperature and humidity.
Maintenance and Verification of Equipment
Sterilization equipment should be regularly maintained and checked to ensure it is working properly. This includes regularly calibrating equipment and performing sterilization effectiveness tests. It is important that the maintenance and checking of the equipment is carried out by qualified professionals.
Continuing Employee Training
Quality control at CME also involves ongoing employee training. This includes training on cleaning, disinfection and sterilization guidelines, as well as equipment maintenance and checking. Ongoing training is essential to ensure employees are up to date with the latest best practices and guidelines.
In summary, quality control at CME is critical to ensuring patient safety and the effectiveness of medical procedures. This involves several steps, including instrument cleaning and disinfection, sterilization, proper storage of sterilized instruments, regular maintenance and checking of sterilization equipment, and ongoing staff training. All these steps must be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the instrument manufacturers and by ANVISA.
