Residual Sterilant Test Method Using Collector Solution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in efficiently and reliably removing residual sterilants, such as hydrogen peroxide, from surfaces after disinfection or sterilization processes, particularly in large areas or sensitive equipment, due to the difficulty in achieving low enough residue levels to meet safety and regulatory standards, and the need for quick certification of sterilant removal.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a test piece with a predetermined surface area is subjected to the sterilization regime, and the residual sterilant is collected and measured using a collector solution, or by reacting with species like iodide and thiosulfate to visually indicate if the residual level exceeds a threshold, allowing for direct or indirect quantification of the sterilant amount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods are used, then sterilization effectiveness is achieved, but residual sterilant remains on surfaces making it difficult to meet safety standards
Solution Approach 1:
The test method extracts and isolates the residual sterilant from the sterilized surface by collecting it in a collector solution, separating the harmful residue from the treated object for measurement and evaluation
Solution Approach 2:
A collector solution acts as an intermediary medium to transfer and concentrate residual sterilant from the test piece surface, enabling accurate measurement through chemical reaction with indicator species
2Object-affected harmful factors
If extensive residual sterilant removal procedures are implemented, then safety standards are met, but process time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test method performs preliminary assessment by placing the test piece in the sterilization space before full sterilization, allowing prediction of residual sterilant levels and optimization of removal procedures beforehand
Solution Approach 2:
The collector solution automatically reacts with residual sterilant through chemical interaction with indicator species, providing self-indicating measurement without requiring complex external analysis equipment or extensive processing
3Measurement precision
If advanced measurement equipment and trained personnel are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The method replaces complex mechanical/electronic measurement systems with a chemical-based detection system using collector solutions and indicator species that provide visual or measurable results through chemical reactions
Solution Approach 2:
The test method changes the measurement parameter from direct physical measurement of residual sterilant to indirect measurement through chemical reaction products, simplifying the measurement system while maintaining precision
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables accurate determination of residual sterilant levels, providing a quick 'go/no-go' confirmation of whether the sterilant has been removed to a safe level, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and is suitable for on-site validation without requiring extensive training or equipment.
Implementation Method 1
collecting the residual sterilant from the test piece in a collector solution
Implementation Method 2
placing the test piece into a first solution containing a known amount of a first species reactive with the sterilant
Implementation Method 3
adding to the first solution a known amount of a second species reactive with the first species, whereby the first species and second species are reactive to provide a result having a first visual appearance
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for determining the amount of residual sterilant remaining on the surface of an object at the end of a disinfection process are described. One method of determining the amount of residual sterilant on a test piece after a sterilization regime in a sterilization space includes the steps of: placing a test piece having a predetermined surface area into the sterilization space; subjecting the test piece to the sterilization regime; collecting the residual sterilant from the test piece in a collector solution; and measuring the amount of residual sterilant in the collector solution.