Table 7: Minimum cycle times for steam sterilization cycles

Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008)

At a glance

Table 7 from the Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008).

Table

Sterilizer type, example item, and exposure time.
Type of Sterilizer Item Exposure time at 250°F (121°C) Exposure time at 270°F (132°C) Drying time
Gravity displacement Wrapped instruments 30 min 15 min 15-30 min
Gravity displacement Textile packs 30 min 25 min 15 min
Gravity displacement Wrapped utensils 30 min 15 min 15-30 min
Dynamic-air-removal (e.g., prevacuum) Wrapped instruments Not Applicable 4 min 20-30 min
Dynamic-air-removal (e.g., prevacuum) Textile packs Not Applicable 4 min 5-20 min
Dynamic-air-removal (e.g., prevacuum) Wrapped utensils Not Applicable 4 min 20 min

Modified from Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation. 813, 819

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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)