Steri gauges/ indicators in sterile packs

[CarlaS]

We occassionally have missed indicators in sterile packages.

Does any one have good system checks to put in place to help keep this from happening?

Also, what is your instituions response to such events?

Thank you for any input or help!

[sonny1388]

Any item that is opened without an indicator in it must be taken out and treated as contaminated. We have a small crew so it is pretty easy to find out who missed the indicator and reaffirm with them the necessity of having them in every set. We always get a few that are missed when we get new people, especially in the light handles, but after a few months it just becomes habit.

[Monarch]

We added the indicator, filters, locks and load card as part of the count sheet to assist personnel to remember the indicators and other pieces of finishing a pack ready for sterilization.