“To ensure your instruments provide many years of reliable service, it's important that the correct care and maintenance is taken. Not only will this maximise the life of your instruments, it's also essential when keeping yourself and your patients safe.
Canonbury's In-House Podiatrist Michelle Gibson has complied a handy guide on how to best clean and maintain your instruments in clinic...”
Instrument Care Guide:
A Guide To Instrument Cleaning and Maintenance
Ensure you use the correct tool for the job
For example, using a small delicate nipper on a thick fungal nail will blunt the nail nipper and place undue pressure on the spring.
Pre Soak
Instruments contaminated with blood and tissue debris should not be allowed to dry prior to cleaning and autoclaving and should be pre soaked with a suitable detergent. This will help prevent debris adhering to and staining our instruments.
Hand scrubbing and ultrasonic cleaning
Most Podiatry/FHP guidelines state automatic cleaners e.g. ultrasonic cleaners are the gold standard when manually cleaning instruments. However, if an ultrasonic cleaner isn't available, manual cleaning under water, with a suitable brush and cleaning solution can be used.
Steam Sterilisation
Steam sterilisation in an autoclave is the only recommended method for use in podiatry.
Marking on Instruments
Instruments when autoclaved with other metals, the wrong water pH, excessive heat, or dried water droplets can lead to staining and discolouration, making instruments appear dirty. It is recommended to use Surgistain to remove any discolouration or markings on your instruments.
Lubrication
All jointed and hinged instruments should be lubricated with a proprietary surgical instrument lubricant. General oils and anti-seizing sprays are not suitable, and their use could result in damage to instruments and/or sterilisation equipment.
Hold and store correctly
We commonly see nippers that have been dropped on the floor. This can squash the tip, rendering the nipper ineffective requiring you to purchase a replacement.
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