steam indicators

[jjnredneck1]

I have worked at several hospitals, and each one has had the same practice of putting steam indicators in their peel-pack when they sterilize. But the hospital I am currently at does not require an indicator in their peel-packs. I have an issue with this practice, but was told the arrow on the outside of the peel-pack is enough? But I have always been told to put one inside as well. I am just wonderinf if anyone has any thought on this issue?

[C Williams]

We always place steam intragraters in peel pouches.This provides additional
validation on the sterilization process.

[rjc_crcst]

Steam indicators in peel pouches vary from institution to institution. If the color indicator has changed on the peel pouch, this is suitable for some institutions. Others have a "rigid" policy that all items must contain a steam indicator, again this is an acceptable solution for that particular institution. One needs to remember, "that as long as all the cycle parameters have been met, it is safe to assume that the items are indeed sterile". Having a chemical indicator is just another indication that the items has been processed using steam.

[irishkatw]

it is important to put an indicator inside a peel pouch. the indicator that is on the peel pouch is on the outside and what you want to sterilize is on the inside, so you need to know that it is sterile. the indicator on the inside would tell you that. :)

[Erle Shepard]

AAMI states that a chemical internal indicator should be used within each package, tray, or container being processed because variations in position within the sterilizer or contents of each package or sterilizer loading pattern may adversely affect sterilizing agent penetration of all surfaces to be sterilized and may affect the time needed to attain the requiredcritical parameter at the site of the goods to be sterilized. The chemical indicator should be placed in that area of the package, tray, or container considered to be least accessible to sterilizing agent penetration. That area may or may not be at the center of the package, tray , or container and may or may not be at the center of the given sterilization chamber. The choice for the type of chemical indicator to be used as the internal chemical indicator should be from a Class 3, 4, or 5.
Hope this helps.