Labeling Sterilization Packages and Expiration Dates
Last Updated: 7/9/2023
Purpose/ Applicability:
The purpose of this SOP is to outline the process of properly labeling items/packages that will be sent for sterilization and monitoring for the expiration of these items.
Scope:
This SOP is intended for use throughout the Veterinary Teaching Hospital including SAC, LAC, VMSC, WMC, and Midwest Equine.
Definition(s):
VTH – Veterinary Teaching Hospital
SAC – Small Animal Clinic
LAC – Large Animal Clinic
VMSC – Vet Med South Clinic
MWE – Midwest Equine
WMC – Wildlife Medical Clinic
Sterilization – The process of eliminating, removing, killing or deactivating all forms of microorganisms present on a specific object.
Equipment:
Items packaged for sterilization
Black Sharpie
Procedure:
- Confirm item to be sterilized is properly packaged
- See SOP on Packaging for Sterilization
- Indicate on the outside of the packaging, in clear and legible writing with a black sharpie, the date the item was packaged.
- Utilize a Month/Day/Year format, i.e., 12/14/21.
- Include a brief description of the items in the package, if warranted.
- Add the name/initials of the service the item is from.
- Add your initials to the package so it is known who packaged the item if there are any issues or questions.
- Bring item(s) to be sterilized to sterile processing and once sterilization is complete, return item(s) to the proper storage area within the service.
- Be sure to rotate stock, placing newly sterilized items in the back and older items forward.
- Monthly, someone within the service (designated by the clinical coordinator for that service) shall be assigned to check all items for expiration.
- An item is defined as expired one year after the packaging date.
- Any identified expired items, those with visible damage, or those that are no longer properly packaged, should be immediately removed from stock/use and packaged to be sterilized again or clearly indicated on that the item that it is no longer sterile.
- VTH Inspection door sheets should be used monthly to document that a visual inspection of all items for expiration has occurred. The sheets should be turned into the VCM Department Office when completed.