Flash sterilization is a sterilization process that allows for immediate use of patient care items, performed at the time of a surgical procedure.  Flash-sterilized items or devices are to be used immediately following sterilization.

When using flash sterilization, make sure the following parameters are met:

1.  Clean the item before placing it in the sterilizing container (that are FDA cleared for use with flash sterilization) or tray;

2.   Prevent exogenous contamination of the item during transport from the sterilizer to the patient;

3.   Monitor sterilizer function with mechanical, chemical, and biologic monitors. 

EXCEPTION:  Do not flash sterilize implanted surgical devices unless doing so is unavoidable.  Do not use flash sterilization for convenience, as an alternative to purchasing additional instrument sets, or to save time.  Do not use packaging materials and containers in flash sterilization cycles unless the sterilizer and the packaging material/container are designed for this use. 

When necessary, use flash sterilization for patient-care items that will be used immediately (e.g., to reprocess an inadvertently dropped instrument).  Also, when necessary, use flash sterilization for processing patient-care items that cannot be packaged, sterilized, and stored before use.  See the complete recommendations on sterilizer and disinfection at www.cdc.gov “Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008”.

ATS, Inc. provides products and services to assist your office in its endeavor for sterility assurance, protecting yourself, your patients and staff from the spread of harmful communicable diseases.