Sterilisation is the total elimination of viable micro-organisms. Any instrument that invades the natural barriers of the body must be sterile.
Needles, razor blades, vaccinostyles, suture materials, gloves, and gauze are packaged in a sterile manner and are disposable. All other instruments must be sterilised. To prevent communicable diseases (sexually transmitted diseases, hepatitis, AIDS), it is recommended to sterilise instruments that do not break the natural barriers of the body (gynaecological specula, nasal specula). Before instruments can be sterilised, they must be scrubbed clean with soap and water.
If certain instruments are not available in a disposable format, arrangements can be made with a nearby hospital to allow for sterilisation.
In summary, we recommend using sterile, disposable materials whenever possible.