Transportable vacuum steam sterilizers - periodic testing (to NHS guidance)
This course is for mobile maintenance and service engineering staff required to complete periodic validation and verification tests on small benchtop N or B type sterilizers used in dental or other healthcare clinics. This course is suitable for individuals with prior experience* of testing and/or in-depth maintenance of such equipment.
Description
Aim
This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely complete validation and verification periodic tests required under healthcare guidance and supplemented by the manufacturer’s advice on N and B type small steam sterilizers.
Objectives
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Recognise the requirements for sterilization of reusable medical devices
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of key personnel
- Recognise microbiology terms commonly referred to in decontamination
- Identify risks associated with small steam sterilizers and publications relevant to their ongoing safety
- Relate basic properties of steam to process parameters and steam quality
- Relate principles of pressure and temperature measurement to the use and calibration of test equipment
- Relate operation principles of N and B type small steam sterilizers to necessary design features
- Prepare and operate specified test equipment
- Complete generic periodic tests
- Evaluate test results
*A basic working knowledge of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
Note: This new course combines STM1 and STM4 – now delivering annual and quarterly testing of N and B type benchtop sterilizers.
Prerequisites
A basic working knowledge of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.