storage of sterilizer records

[Carolyn.DavisCrownPoint]

How long do we have to keep the sterilizer records. Record sheets, print outs from the sterilizer, bowie dick test and biological test? I have heard 7 years and 10 years. Eto records I believe are kept 30 years?

[johnfmartin]

Please check with your records dept re state requirements. 7 years is the average time to maintain records. ETO are longer and I believe that is dictated by OSHA

[Carolyn.DavisCrownPoint]

Can this infom be found in aami? New question where would I find info on flash sterilization?

[VKOZIK]

A couple of years ago I was looking for this information also. I tried my state level and they referred me to the local level. My local health department sent me a copy from the June 2002 Louisiana Administrative Code Page 225 Title 51, Part XIX. It stated "records shall be kept of the sterilizer operations for at least a year." Our facility choose to make it for 3 years rather than 1 and we don't process using ETO. THANKS

[cpdguy]

Some good advice has already been given.
Here is some more.
Check with your risk management department. They should have the documentation you need.
Next, if you are doing children, you need to keep your records to at least for 18 years. Risk managment can fill you in . Or if somebody is working at a childrens hospital then they can share. It has to do with how long you follow the patient most are to the age of 18.

Hope this helps.