The primary purpose of preparation and packaging is to ensure that instruments are properly sterilized and that their sterility is maintained until they are used.
Instruments should be arranged loosely and in an open position in the sterilization tray to ensure effective penetration of steam or gas during the sterilization process.
Chemical indicators are placed inside packages to ensure that the conditions for sterilization, such as temperature and exposure time, have been met.
Biological indicators are used to verify the effectiveness of the sterilization process by confirming the destruction of highly resistant microorganisms.
The integrity of the sterile packaging should be inspected before and after sterilization, as well as before use, to ensure that the packaging has not been compromised and that sterility is maintained.
