Protocol Categories
Sterilisation and disinfection of instruments
Sterilisation is not merely a stage in the course of treatment, but rather what makes the treatment itself possible. In Switzerland, all premises where treatments involving broken skin are carried out – for example, pedicures, cuticle care or hair removal – are required to document the sterilisation of their instruments, although checks focus primarily on the process itself rather than the equipment.
This protocol describes the entire cycle – from the collection of the soiled instrument to its placement in a dated bag and its readiness for use – including errors that invalidate the entire cycle: an instrument that is still damp at the time of packaging; a drill bit that has been disinfected in the same disinfection tank as a pair of tweezers; or a bag that has already been opened the previous day.
Immerse the instrument in the disinfectant solution immediately after treatment is complete, before any residue from the solution has a chance to dry. A dry instrument is difficult to clean, and dried residues of the solution provide a breeding ground for microorganisms throughout the remainder of the cycle. Observe the dilution ratios and exposure times specified by the manufacturer.
Drill bits should not be cleaned with pliers: the teeth of the drill bit trap material residues, so a specific cleaning solution is required. Using the same solution to soak all tools is the most common and most obvious mistake observed during inspections.
The ultrasonic cleaning system removes what cannot be removed by immersion: the joints of forceps, the grooves and the teeth of burs. This is an extremely important step prior to packaging: an instrument that looks clean is not always actually clean.
Allow the instrument to dry completely before packing it: any residual moisture inside a sealed bag will render the sterilisation ineffective. Choose a bag that is the right size for the instrument, ensure that the indicator is clearly visible, and write the date on the bag.
Between one client’s visit and the next, it is necessary to clean the surfaces, the lamp, the sander and the armrest. The workplace is the most underestimated source of dirt, as it is not visible.
Disinfection before and after each client; gloves are changed before each treatment. It is a simple gesture, but if neglected, it is the first thing that catches the eye of an observant client.
