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

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why are instrument packs important in a veterinary setting?
- What differences typically exist between a small animal pack and a pack for large animals? Why?
- What are the differences between a general pack and an emergency pack?
- How is sterilization ensured in the preparation of instrument packs?
- What are the guidelines for identifying sterilized surgical packs?
- What are the benefits of using an ultrasonic instrument cleaner prior to autoclaving instruments?
- What is cross-plating, and how is it prevented?
- Why do instruments need to be lubricated prior to autoclaving?
- 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 peel packs opened to maintain sterility?
- Why are standard packs wrapped in two layers?
- What is surgical milk?
- How are surgical blades removed from the handles and how are they disposed of?

Teacher Resources:

- Surgical Instruments: Manufacturing and Care, Vetfolio (https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/surgical-instruments-manufacturing-and-care)
- Instrument Care Tips and Techniques, Federation of Asian Small Animal Veterinary Associations (https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=22915&catId=124646&id=8896579)