In this lesson we will look at mechanical cleaning of instruments. It is required under the Australian Standard 5369:2023 that any item that can be mechanically cleaned (as opposed to manually cleaned) prior to sterilisation is done so. The only time we would not use mechanical cleaning is if the manufacturer’s instructions for use for a particular item state not to do so.
At Dental Boutique we use ultrasonic baths for mechanical cleaning. These baths produce ultrasonic vibrations that help to dislodge debris from instruments, with the help of detergent. We then take the instruments out and rinse them in warm water. We do not use cold water for rinsing as it is not as effective in removing grease or oils.
Prior to using the ultrasonic bath, we must fill it to the correct height with water, then add instrument cleaner (detergent). We then degas the solution to remove any tiny bubbles, and then do the pencil test. The pencil test is done to ensure that the ultrasonic is producing the correct amount of vibration to clean adequately. We then log the results of the pencil test in our practice managment software, ie. Core Practice or Principle.
This is an ultrasonic bath. We must use these units when cleaning most instruments prior to sterilisation, according to the instrument manufacturer’s instructions. We do not put electrical items in here, or handpieces.
In this video we see how the pencil test is performed. This is done each morning before we use the ultrasonic bath to clean instruments.
In this video we see how to unload the ultrasonic bath after it has finished a cleaning cycle. Wearing heavy duty gloves, we drain any excess detergent then rinse the instruments in warm/hot running water. We then tip the items out gently onto a towel, making sure to avoid sharps injuries.
POINTS TO REMEMBER:
We degas the ultrasonic each time we replace the solution. This removes bubbles and potential air pockets to ensure thorough cleaning.
We must test the ultrasonic bath each morning, to ensure the transducers are working. We do this using the pencil test. The pencil test is only done once per day however we must degas each solution change.
Heavy duty gloves are worn when loading or unloading the ultrasonic bath.
No electrical items, handpieces or other delicate items are to go through the ultrasonic bath. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when cleaning instruments.
Prior to placing items in the unit, we check them for any broken parts/components, or any heavy debris. If there is heavy debris or contamination on the items, we give them a rinse prior to placing them in the ultrasonic. After the items are processed through an ultrasonic cycle, we inspect them upon unloading and scrub off any residual debris/residue. This helps to minimise the amount of manual scrubbing of instruments required prior to sterilisation, saving time and reducing the risk of sharps injury.
When the solution in the ultrasonic becomes cloudy, we must change it as this indicates it is heavily contaminated with bioburden.
When not in use, the ultrasonic bath must be drained, emptied and dried.
