What should be documented in immediate-use steam sterilization cycles?

Documenting patient ID and the reason for immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS) is essential because it establishes a direct link between the sterilized instruments and the specific patient undergoing a procedure. This information is crucial for traceability, ensuring that the appropriate instruments are available and safe for use in that particular patient’s care. It also provides context for the necessity of using IUSS, which is often an expedited process used in situations where standard sterilization cycles may not be applicable due to time constraints. Having this documentation helps to maintain a standard of safety and accountability in sterile processing practices.

While documenting other aspects, such as instrument type, cycle duration, date and time of sterilization, and staff responsibility, is important for overall record-keeping and quality assurance, the immediate connection to patient safety and care is paramount when it comes to IUSS.