There are many advantages to using autoclave sterilization machines in hospitals. It’s no surprise they are used by more and more medical facilities all over the world. Read on to find out more about their benefits!
When did hospitals first start using autoclave sterilization machines?
The first autoclave sterilization machine that was used by hospitals already saw the light of day in the 19th century. A French microbiologist by the name of Charles Chamberland was working on a better sterilization method to make medical operations safer and reduce the risks of infections. Basic cleaning and disinfection just couldn’t provide 100% reliability.
Charles Chamberland was actually one of the students of Louis Pasteur and was inspired by his mentor’s realization that moist heat could be an effective way to rid medical equipment of infectious foreign materials. The result of this project came to be known as the autoclave, or “steam sterilization” machine. By the beginning of the 20th century, hospitals became more and more aware of this new technology and its benefits.
While the basic principle of steam sterilization remains the same to this day, many improvements have been made to the base model which has made the day-to-day work of medical staff even easier.
Why should hospitals use autoclave sterilization machines?
There are many advantages to using autoclave sterilization machines in hospitals:
- The operation of autoclaves is much more sustainable compared to incinerators, as there is no risk of harmful emissions or bad odors.
- The upfront and operational costs of autoclave sterilization machines are also much lower compared to the installation and maintenance of an on-site incinerator.
- The installation of and incorporation of steam sterilizers into a hospital’s waste management system is also much easier compared to incinerators, as they require much less available space.
- They are just as effective at treating red bag medical waste with temperatures ranging between 121 and 134 degrees Celsius. This allows them to kill even heat-resistant bacteria.
- Autoclave sterilization machines allow hospital staff to treat medical waste on-site. This means there is no more need to store potentially hazardous waste on-site.
- This also eliminates the need to pay for higher transportation costs related to the removal of infectious waste.
- Autoclave sterilization machines also allow for the reuse of hospital equipment, including surgical tools and certain elements of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Instead of throwing them out and buying new ones, you can keep reusing your equipment without risking the spread of infections.
What kind of autoclave sterilization machine should a hospital use?
There are many different types of autoclave sterilization machines that hospitals can use. Of course, some sterilizer manufacturers are more popular than others.
Celitron’s autoclave sterilization machines for hospitals can be found in medical facilities all over the world. With both medium and large vacuum steam sterilizers, this notable manufacturer can provide the same reliable performance, regardless of the size of the autoclave chosen. This is why apart from hospitals, dental and veterinary clinics can also use more compact models to suit their sterilization needs.
