ETO STERILIZER

Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilizers are used to sterilize medical devices, instruments, and surfaces. EtO is a gas that kills microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.

Uses

1. Sterilizing medical devices that can’t be sterilized by heat or radiation
2. Sterilizing single-use medical devices
3. Sterilizing plastic packaging and containers
4. Sterilizing items that incorporate electronic components
5. How it works
6. EtO is used in a vacuum-based process to penetrate surfaces
7. EtO gas infiltrates packages and products to kill microorganisms
8. EtO is mixed with air at a ratio of at least 3% ETO gas to form an explosive mixture
9. EtO is usually mixed with nitrogen or carbon dioxide

Safety

1. The sterilization cycle must be carried out at the correct temperature
2. The chamber must have a safety evacuation phase to quickly remove the gas
3. Examples of items sterilized with EtO
4. Renal hemodialysis sets
5. Tubing sets/bloodlines
6. Gowns and drapes
7. Heart valves
8. Pacemakers
9. Surgical drills
10. Pumps
11. Respirators