Sterilization of medical tools and devices is a foundation of infection prevention in healthcare facilities. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently revised and strengthened its guidance to address evolving risks—such as epidemics, antimicrobial resistance, and the need for safe reuse of devices. Below is a summary of current WHO recommendations and best practices for sterilization and reprocessing of medical devices.
What WHO’s Guidelines Cover
- Decontamination & Reprocessing of Medical Devices (2024): WHO released an updated manual with comprehensive instructions for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing reusable devices in healthcare facilities.
- Checklists for Respiratory Devices: WHO provides standardized checklists for cleaning and sterilizing equipment like ventilators, CPAP/BiPAP systems, and oxygen delivery devices.
- Sterilization Against HIV and Other Pathogens: WHO emphasizes sterilization methods effective against viruses and bacteria, especially for invasive instruments.
Key Recommendations & Best Practices
|
Area |
Recommendation |
|
Cleaning & Pre-processing |
Remove visible organic matter before sterilization using enzymatic detergents or ultrasonic cleaners. |
|
Device Classification |
Apply the Spaulding classification (critical, semicritical, noncritical) to determine the level of sterilization required. |
|
Sterilization Methods |
Use autoclaving (steam) for heat-resistant devices; validated low-temperature methods (ethylene oxide, vaporized hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid) for heat-sensitive items. |
|
Validation & Monitoring |
Verify sterilization cycles with biological, chemical, and mechanical indicators; maintain cycle records. |
|
Packaging |
Use materials that allow sterilant penetration and maintain sterility; inspect packages before use. |
|
Storage & Handling |
Store sterilized items in controlled, sterile environments and handle with aseptic technique. |
|
Training & Infrastructure |
Ensure staff are trained and facilities have reliable utilities, ventilation, and maintenance systems. |
|
Safety & Environment |
Monitor chemical sterilants to protect staff and the environment; use safer alternatives where feasible. |
Practical Challenges
Low-resource settings often face challenges like unreliable electricity, water shortages, and limited access to sterilants. WHO guidance emphasizes practical approaches, including checklists and standardized protocols, to maintain safe practices even in such environments.
Why It Matters
Proper sterilization prevents healthcare-associated infections, protects patients and staff, and builds trust in healthcare systems. With rising antimicrobial resistance and global health threats, strict adherence to updated sterilization guidelines is more important than ever.
Source: World Health Organization – Decontamination and reprocessing of medical devices for health-care facilities (2024 edition)
Disclaimer: This blogpost is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or regulatory advice. Healthcare facilities should follow official WHO guidelines, national regulations, and consult infection prevention specialists when implementing sterilization protocols.
