Standard Guide for Care and Handling of Stainless Steel Surgical Instruments

Abstract

This guide is intended to provide a better understanding of the care of stainless steel surgical instruments intended for reuse. This guide is not intended for use with electrical, pneumatic, or other powered surgical instruments. The stainless steels most used are martensitic and austenitic types. The instruments shall be used only for their intended purpose, such as cutting, holding, clamping, retracting, and so forth. Undue stress or strain should be avoided when handling and cleaning. The guide includes care in particular for hemostatic forceps, needle holders, scissors, microsurgical instruments, instrument kits, and other sharp instruments. The instrument care specified includes cleaning, lubrication, and inspection. Testing, repair and restoration, and sterilization are specified.