How to Package Surgical Instruments for Autoclaving

Surgical instruments need to be sterile to avoid causing infection to the patient. Packaging surgical instruments before using an autoclave to sterilize them is an important part of this process. The packaging prevents the contents from being contaminated by microbes and dirt in the air until they are ready for use. Laminated film pouches are typically used to package surgical instruments.

1

Clean off any debris or fluids from the surgical instruments. Dry thoroughly.

2

Place the surgical instruments inside the laminated film pouch.

3

Place the open end of the pouch into the sealing device. It will automatically seal the pouch.

4

Place the sealed pouch containing the surgical instruments into the autoclave.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use any surgical instruments from a laminated film pouch that has not been sealed or that has ruptured. There is a chance that the contents have become contaminated since autoclaving.