Physical Integrity of Sterile Packages SUMMARY Updated 05/04

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Physical integrity of sterilized items is violated when a package is torn, dropped, wet or damaged. This is commonly referred to as an event. Hospital sterilized items will have an indefinite shelf life and will be considered sterile as long as the integrity of the package is not compromised. In addition, sterile items remaining on shelves and unused for over one year should be evaluated for continued use. Inventoried items with slow turn over should be carefully evaluated to determine the necessity of stocking the item.

The shelf life of sterilized items is event-related and not time-related. It is dependent upon packaging materials, handling and storage conditions. Items sterilized at The Johns Hopkins Hospital will follow the event related system.

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Inspection
All sterile packages must be inspected before use. If the package is torn, wet, or has been soiled, or is covered in dust, do not use. If dropped, sealed packages must be carefully inspected for package integrity, and if integrity is maintained, the package may be used.

Storage
Sterile packages must not be crushed, bent, compressed, or kept stored with rubber bands. Storage areas must be kept dry (ie: not near sinks, sewer pipes, etc.), and arranged to facilitate stock rotation. Store liquids below sterile goods. Do not store sterile items under plumbing valves or traps. Closed shelving is preferred. Delivery carts must be covered during transport of sterile supplies.

Housekeeping
Shelves must be damp wiped and cleaned weekly, floors must be wet vacuumed or wet mopped once daily or more often if necessary. There must not be any sweeping or dry mopping within the area. There must be consistancy of trained staff in the selection, application, and wrapping of sterile items.

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