Hygiene Atlas

Start here · Sterilization · The instrument processing cycle

10. Store and use event-related sterility

Also called: event-related shelf life, sterile storage

Keep packs closed, clean and dry; a pack stays sterile unless something damages it.

Store sterile packs in closed or covered cabinets, away from sinks and anywhere they could get wet. Many offices use event-related sterility: a package stays sterile until an event (a tear, getting wet, being dropped on a wet floor) compromises it. Check every pack before you open it.

How to spot it

  1. Torn, wet, stained or crushed packs, or a seal that has opened.

What you do

  1. Many offices rotate stock so older packs are used first; check each pack for damage before you open it.
  2. If a pack is compromised, reclean, repackage and resterilize the instruments.

Safety and care

  1. Never store supplies under the sink.

Related

Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), CDC. Best Practices for Sterilization in Dental Settings (Dental Infection Prevention FAQs)