Title: Demonstrate methods for cleaning, disinfecting, and preparing surgical instruments.
Course: Veterinary Science II (18105-II) > Section: Demonstrating Surgical Procedures

Demonstration should include

- the chemicals and equipment used to clean and disinfect selected surgical instruments
- the steps followed in cleaning and disinfecting selected surgical instruments
- preparation of a surgical pack following standard veterinary guidelines.

Teacher Resources:

- Surgical Instruments: Manufacturing and Care, Vetfolio
- Instrument Care Tips and Techniques, World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress Proceedings, 2018

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why are instrument packs important in a veterinary setting?
- What differences typically exist between instrument packs for small animal and those for large animals? Why?
- What are the differences between a general pack and an emergency pack?
- What are the guidelines for identifying sterilized surgical packs?
- What are the functions of autoclave tape and indicator strips?
- What is the difference between gas and steam sterilization, and when would one be used over the other?
- Why is it important to use neutral pH instrument cleaners and not scrub solutions for cleaning instruments?
- What is the minimum standard for temperature/time/psi in a steam autoclave?
- How are surgical blades removed from the handles and how are they disposed of?