Objective:

To monitor autoclave effectiveness and conduct routine validation of sterilization cycles.

Material and methods:

An observational, cross-sectioned, qualitative and prospective study of three Sterilization and Packing Center autoclaves of the Technological University of Mexico of the School of Dentistry was conducted. The study included 96 surgical and non-surgical packs, and spanned the period from May 2012 to April 2015. Monthly assessments were conducted, according to Official Mexican Norm stipulation number NOM-013-SSA2-1994, modification 2006, using rapid lecture biological indicators (1292 3 M Attest™). Sterilization efficiency was determined as biological annihilation elicited in these indicators. Effectiveness assessment was conducted after three hours with an automatic optic reader (3 M Attest 290™). A positive witness was included in all readings.

Results:

Negative results were obtained in biological indicators readings used in autoclaves. A 100% effectiveness was achieved in sterilization processes of surgical and non surgical packs. All witnesses were positive.

Conclusions:

The effectiveness of Sterilization and Packing Center autoclaves of the Technological University of Mexico of the School of Dentistry was corroborated. The Norm established by the Mexican Health Ministry was complied with.

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