Sterilization, Safety, and Smart Disinfection in Modern Healthcare
The evolving world of healthcare, maintaining a hygiene and sterile environment inside the operating theatre, is a very important and necessary task. In this sterilisation process, the most commonly used agents for medical disinfection are Hydrogen peroxide(H2O2).This compound plays an important role in today’s hospitals due to its powerful antimicrobial properties
Let’s take a closer look at how hydrogen peroxide is used in operating theatres. Including its benefits, Applications and associated safety precautions.
Hydrogen Peroxide for Sterilisation in the Operation Theatre
The most important and critical is hydrogen Peroxide sterilisation. Used for sterilisation of the Operating Rooms, hydrogen peroxide os used in both liquid and vaporised forms to disinfect surfaces, instruments and air.
Vaporised Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP)
The Vaporised Hydrogen Peroxide is effective in large areas like surgical suites and ICUs. VHP system releases a fine mist of hydrogen peroxide that can penetrate hard-to-reach areas. it kills bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi. it is highly effective and dresedue free, making it ideal for critical hospital environment
Sterilizing Surgical Instruments
Hydrogen Peroxide is also used in low-temperature plasma sterilisation systems like STERRAD. This system works on heat and moisture-sensitive medical equipment. used to sterilize equipment like endoscopes, catheters, and surgical tools can be sterilised efficiently using hydrogen peroxide gas plasma technology
Benefits of the sterilisation using Hydrogen Peroxide.
- Non-corrosive to most medical devices
- Short Cycle Time
- No Toxic Byproducts
Disinfection of Surfaces in the OT
Hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectants can be used to sterilise operating Tables, Surgical lights, Floor surfaces, and other OT equipment. These can also be used for routine cleaning as well as terminal cleaning ( After each surgical procedure)
Hydrogen Peroxide Surface Disinfectants.
- It ensures broad-spectrum antimicrobial action
- Are Fast Acting
- Leave no residue
Hydrogen Peroxide for the Wound Irrigation
It is also used for surgical cases. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution is used directly on wounds to help in
- Mechanical Debridement (Removing Dead Tissue)
- Controlling Minor Bleeding
- Reducing Superficial Contamination
It is important to use Hydrogen peroxide on the wound cautiously, as improper usage can damage the tissues or cause complications like oxygen embolism.
Safety Considerations in OT Use
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant , and it is important to use it safety protocol
- Avoid using closed body cavities
- Ensure proper ventilation during VHP disinfection
- Train staff in handling emergency response
There are some reported cases of tissue toxicity and gas embolism due to improper use of hydrogen peroxide. That’s why careful use is very important
Conclusion
The hydrogen peroxide is a cornerstone in the operation there sterilisation protocols. It offers an eco-friendly method of infection control. From vaporised hydrogen peroxide room disinfection to surgical instrument sterilisation and even wound cleaning its various applications make it important in modern surgical practice