BACKGROUND. The decontamination procedure for reusable surgical instruments is usually performed by hands. The manual for them in clinical setting is wondered whether effectively recommended in details.
PURPOSE. To know the actual situation of the manuals in clinical settings and to aid at the improvement.
METHODS. The manuals for decontamination of reusable surgical instruments in forty-six hospitals have been investigated. Electrical conductivity was employed as indicator for the efficacy of decontamination procedure with water rinsing. The conductivity is increased by ionized chemicals in rinsing water. The methods of pouring tap water into rinsing container were evaluated by the conductivities.
RESULTS. In more than 90% of the replied hospitals, they have no manuals on the details of decontaminating procedures. When the rinsing water in the container was fully exchanged, the conductivity showed the lower value.
CONCLUSION. The simple method to exchange once the full water in rising container during the procedure is effective for high quality rinsing without waste excess water.