Critical to Instrument Reprocessing, Critical Water!

A crystal-clear water droplet creates a dynamic splash, captured mid-air against a serene blue background.

Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink," Poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. This line highlights the critical importance of water, a sentiment that holds true in the context of reprocessing medical instruments. Poor quality water can negatively affect instruments, equipment, and patient outcomes. It is so critical that AAMI's TIR 34 has been revised and converted into a full-fledged guideline. See AAMI's ST108:2023 Water for the processing of medical devices .

Critical water sources are diverse and can be seasonal. Knowing where your water comes from might not be as important as knowing what is in it. Current trends point towards the development of better water management systems utilizing interdisciplinary teams in healthcare settings. Routine testing to determine water quality is essential.

Critical water and utility water have specifications for:

• Hardness

• Conductivity

• pH

• Chlorides

• Bacteria

• Endotoxins

  
  

Utility water is primarily used in the decontamination area for manual cleaning. Critical water, used for final rinses in both manual and automated processes, has lower values for each measurement.

In Sterile Processing, we have developed management programs for equipment and instrument functionality. We test our washer/disinfectors for proper cleaning using cleaning efficiency soil tests. Ultrasonic cleaners are tested with cavitation tests. Bowie/Dick and biological indicators verify sterilization cycles. For processes like endoscopes, we use ATP tests to verify cleaning. Lastly, with each instrument reprocessing cycle, we test the functionality of our instruments. The common factor in all these processes is water. Poor water quality can affect each process and potentially harm patients.

If you haven't already, develop a water management system now.

At Evolved Sterile Processing, our consultants specialize in sterile processing. With decades of experience, we can help you develop better processes and educational resources for your staff. Contact us today to ensure your water management system is up to standard.