FAQ: Using the "Express" Steam Sterilization Cycle.

ANSI/AAMI ST79:2006, Section 8.6.2.4 Flash cycles with single wrappers or other textile packaging, states:

"Some prevacuum and pulsing gravity displacement steam sterilizers provide a cycle designed to permit flash sterilization using a single wrapper or other packaging on the instrument tray. The parameters for sterilization are established and present by the sterilizer manufacturer, whose written directions and guidelines for use should be followed. These instructions should include recommendations concerning the type of wrapper or other packaging and the types of instruments that are suitable for flash sterilization using this method. The sterilizer or packaging manufacturer should supply supporting scientific data demonstrating that sterilization can be achieved when a single wrapper or other packaging is used in flash sterilization."

The appropriate method for monitoring an express cycle is to make a representative biological indicator (BI) challenge test tray (e.g., representative single-wrapped surgical tray) with either 3M™ Attest™ 1262 Biological Indicator or 3M™ Attest™ 1292 Rapid Readout Biological Indicator, and one or more chemical indicators (CI).

ANSI/AAMI ST79:2006, Section 10.7.4.1 Composition of the PCD (BI challenge test tray), states:

"A representative of the same type of tray to be routinely processed through the flash sterilizer should be selected to serve as that PCD (BI challenge test tray). Each type of tray configuration in routine use for flash sterilization should be tested: a perforated, mesh-bottomed, open surgical tray; a rigid sterilization container system; a protective organizing case; or a single-wrapped surgical tray..."

For routine testing, the BI challenge test tray should be run on the bottom shelf over the drain of an otherwise empty chamber. [Note: The reduced number of vacuum pulls during the come-up time makes a commercially prepared process challenge device or test pack, such as 3M™ Attest™ 1296 Rapid Readout Steam Biological Test Pack or 3M™ Attest™ 41382 Rapid 5 Steam Plus Test Pack, too challenging for monitoring an express cycle.]