Tables and Figure: Table 7
Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008)
Minimum cycle times for steam sterilization cycles
| 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
Page last reviewed: September 18, 2016