How Vet Clinics are Improving Infection Control
Sterilization and proper infection control practices are important in every facet of the medical industry, even the ones you don’t hear about often. Like the veterinary field for example. Whenever we show you about hospitals or medical practices looking for better infection control, veterinary clinics are fighting the same fight. And sometimes they even run into similar problems or constraints that you read anyone else having when it comes to dealing with outbreaks or infection spikes.
Veterinary Practice News has a recent article going over the struggles and issues that the veterinary field has been facing. And through a study published in Veterinary Clinics of North America, they’re looking into the ways they can combat them. So in this article, we’d like to go over some of the details in this study, and the problem/solution list they came up with. And while we’re here, we also want to look into a possible solution of our own.
What Are the Problems in Veterinary Infection Control?
Like anyone else, veterinary practices aim for high-standard, yet efficient ways to properly prep surgical instruments to prevent surgical site infections. It’s also reported that these SSIs occur in 0.8% to 18.1% of patients. The study from Veterinary Practice News found that these numbers have one key contributor across the board: improper cleaning. A questionnaire was given, and they found that only half of veterinarians have standardized written protocols in place to increase prevention…further exacerbating the issue at hand.
In the article, it states that other data from the Canadian Veterinary Journal shows a small sample of instruments subjected to cold, sterile solutions. From that sample, 13% of them showed signs of opportunistic pathogens and other bacteria. And like we’ve been saying, they’ve found in recent years, that water quality is a very important factor in all of this.
Overall, the study showed that there are many ongoing challenges in ensuring effective instrument cleaning in vet practices:
- Instrument Design: Hinges and crevices make thorough cleaning difficult
- Resource Constraints: Tight budgets limit access to advanced cleaning tech.
- Lack of Training: Inadequate staff training on proper techniques.
- Inadequate Protocols: Less standardization compared to human healthcare.
What Were Their Solutions?
When it came to addressing these challenges in the veterinary space, surgical instrument cleaning required a multi-faceted approach. Usually, the clinics used manual methods like individual brushing, rinsing, drying and packing. But these turned out to be time-consuming. So they looked into a more innovative approach that could improve efficiency and workflow.
Their new innovative practice involves the use of custom-made stainless steel instrument racks. These racks hold soiled instruments fully open for optimal cleaning. And each slot is etched out to show the proper instrument layout, and said layout mirrors their order for packing. It allows for simultaneous manual cleaning, as well as a way to put them all in large ultrasonic cleaners for removal of debris. It reduces labor, speeds up the drying and lubrication steps, helps for easier inventory management… It’s an effective time saver for building surgical packs. And if you make it convenient for everyone, the idea may just take off in a good way.
But when it comes to veterinary surgical instruments, we have a solution we’d like to talk about that can further enhance the cleaning process.
What are Our Solutions?
The innovative work done by the veterinary clinics mentioned above is a great way to combat their key issues. The custom rack setup for efficiency and better workflow can potentially lead to a great change down the line. But like anything, there’s always room for improvement. So we’d like to add on to what they’re doing, and offer some key solutions of our own.
Point 1: Instrument Design
One of the key issues the vet clinics faced that brought on the solution was instrument design. They were having trouble with proper manual cleaning because each instrument had intricate parts like hinges and small crevices. Small, porous areas on an instrument are proven to be places where lots of bacteria and even small chunks of debris are known to take shelter. So one of the best ways we know to flush them out: steam sterilization.
Most autoclaves use some form of steam sterilization to ensure debris is cleared out. So if you’re worried about getting the toughest of spots cleared, autoclaves have your back. Steam sterilization utilizes various methods like gravity displacement or vacuum pulses in combination with high chamber pressure to work steam into even the most porous of tools to eliminate bacteria and dislodge debris.
And even though they mentioned the use of ultrasonic cleaners, it’s important to know why ultrasonic cleaners are so important. Ultrasonic cleaners operate using a process called cavitation. The waves create air bubbles or pockets, that are formed on and in the instrument and the shockwaves from the machine burst the air bubbles. Once the air bubbles burst, they break up the debris and your problems melt away.
Point 2: Resource Contraints
Another problem faced by vet clinics recently is budget constraints. Which can make implementing new infection control practices more difficult since a lot of advanced technology is a big investment. But, with the rise in advanced technology, there’s also been the simultaneous rise in budget autoclaves. You can find autoclaves that sterilize beyond the standard for a relatively good price.
Refurbished Units
Take refurbished autoclaves for example. You see the word “refurbished” and your first thought might be that you’re getting a lower quality product… But that’s not the case. With Sterilizer Autoclave Solutions, our refurbished units are renovated to have up-to-date parts where they’re needed and maintained to a very high standard.
Sometimes you don’t need an expensive, brand-new unit, so you look to a refurb to cut costs. Sometimes the unit that may work the best for your specific criteria can only be found in refurbished condition. And these are just a few reasons why even refurbished units have their perks.
Lower-Cost Units
If you’re on a budget constraint, but still want a new unit, there are low-cost options for brand new units available. With a new unit, you get factory sealed, sleek autoclaves to break in. But all that pristine shine doesn’t have to come at a hefty price. Like the Tuttnauer T-Top 10 for example, you get a full-size tabletop autoclave at a fraction of the price.
Or if you’re all about conserving space, you can get a compact autoclave like the Enbio S shown below. Enbio’s compact tried-and-true formula that can stand with the best in less than half the size. Compact autoclaves are perfect for a practice that needs an autoclave that can stay out of the way but still handle the busy work day.
You can even find budget-friendly ultrasonic cleaners. The BioSonic UC150 (shown below) is the peak of modern ultrasonic performance, and costs virtually nothing like what you’d see anywhere else. It’s a silent, tabletop terminator of debris, with a 1.5 gallon ultrasonic tank, customizable cycle options, user-friendly accommodations and more. Along with downloadable data-logging through USB, your cleaning data is accessible anywhere, anytime.
Whether it’s new or refurbished, full size or compact, it’s all about what your practice needs. But even with budget constraints, you can still utilize the necessary technology that can further enhance your workflow. So it’s important to keep all of these factors in mind if you’re looking at autoclaves or ultrasonic cleaners for your practice so you get the absolute best bang for your buck.
Point 3: Lack of Training
Some vet clinics struggled with inadequate staff training. Mainly on things like the use of detergents and correct cleaning methods. But that’s no big deal. When it comes to autoclaves and all things infection control, Sterilizer Autoclave Solutions has you covered. If it’s resources for training or tutorials, we have a wealth of content on our website and YouTube channel that spans a variety of medical tech or peripherals.
We have blogs on our website that cover things like autoclave tutorials; installation, operation and maintenance guides. As well as overviews that show the ins and outs of the features you’ll get. As well as blogs on infection control products; disinfection, personal protection equipment, and more.
If you’re more of a visual learner, we have our YouTube channel. With playlists full of videos pertaining to all things autoclaves and infection control. Whether it’s videos from our in-house technicians going over tutorials, error codes, preventative maintenance, and all kinds of other videos.
Point 4: Inadequate Protocols
The final point that Veterinary Practice News touched on was inadequate protocols to ensure consistent cleaning effectiveness. With us, we take the
hard work out of the equation with a wealth of programs we have available for anyone, customer or not. For preventative maintenance, we have our PM Checklists like the one shown on the right, which tell you what needs to be done, what parts you need, and QR codes that take you to exactly where on our site you need to go.
We also have preventative maintenance programs where we set up a plan for your autoclave and give YOU a call when it’s time for maintenance. We’ll ensure that you remember when maintenance is due to keep your units in top shape.
If you need live assistance, try our Virtual Technician Program. It allows you to text, call or even video chat with our technicians LIVE through a variety of platforms. This lets the techs get eyes on your issue, and let’s you get the most effective help through transparency and communication on the issue. And they’ll help you answer any questions you have for a better understanding of your autoclave going forward.
Our Best Selection
When talking about our points, we showed a few examples of some autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners that would be fitting solutions to the vet’s issue points. In this section, we’d like to show you more about each unit we made an example of, and even cover one veterinary exclusive solution from Tuttnauer.
The Tuttnauer T-Edge 11S TVET Edition
For a veterinary clinic, finding the right sterilizer can be difficult because veterinary instruments need a gentle but thorough touch. Thankfully,
Tuttnauer’s T-Edge 11S has gotten a modification in its TVET Edition that allows for just that. A gentler touch for your instruments that also provides sterilization that can pass or even exceed the standard.
Tuttnauer T-Edge Vet autoclave gives you high quality Class B performance that meets current international standards and regulatory requirements to protect your furry patients.
The T-Edge Vet sterilizer line fits all your sterilization needs from adjusting cycle parameters to accommodating double wrapped pouches. Helping veterinarians meet today’s challenging workloads in modern veterinary practices.
Tuttnauer T-Edge 11S TVET Edition 110v features include:
- Fast Cycles – Fast cycles with powerful built-in vacuum pump
- Low operating noise level – <67 dB.
- Optimal chamber capacity – More than 75% chamber capacity with 5 extra-long trays
- Convenient loading – Open the door to 110º ensures it will not block your smooth loading of the chamber.
- Click & go – Automatic operation from start to finish with a user friendly touch screen control
- User-friendly touchpad control panel – Displays programs, cycles times, water levels and more.
- Advanced documentation – A variety of documentation and traceability options and barcodes.
- Remote Wi-Fi monitoring – Via smartphone or tablet.
- Chamber Capacity – 7 Gal / 27 Liters
So if you’d like to view the Tuttnauer T-Edge 11S TVET Edition for your vet clinic, you can find them on our site here.
The Tuttnauer T-Top 10
The Tuttnauer T-Top 10 is one of Tuttnauer’s most recent and stellar example of what a modern autoclave should be. A 21 liter tabletop autoclave, specifically developed for dental and medical clinics of small to medium practices. Simplicity and economy, this tabletop autoclave covers the fundamental needs for your general clinic sterilization with the aim of increasing the productivity of your practice. The T-Top 10 offers universal capacity in an affordable and reliable solution you can count on for managing your daily practice sterilization process workload.
The perfect balance between performance, ergonomics, technology & usability. Resulting in a strong and efficient autoclave which perfectly meets the requirements of all standard practices. And it even has some incredible benefits like:
- Programming and customization functions
- Specially designed user interface to speed up and optimize daily workload
- Wi-Fi connection & T-Connect software
- Remotely access cycle history, get notifications and alerts
- Easy to operate, maintain, and use
- Multicolor user-friendly touch screen
- Compact and ergonomic, designed to fit into your space
If you want to view the Tuttnauer T-Top 10, you can find it on our website here.
The Enbio S
With a modern take on the compact autoclave, Enbio came into the industry swinging with their Enbio S. A great balance between price and
power that can offer the greatest hits without breaking your budget. The Enbio S is one of the trademark machines of Enbio. When compared to usual autoclaves, they come in all shapes and sizes.
Usually size is an indicator that they can hold more tools, but it may take slightly more time than their smaller counterparts. This does offer variety to fit the needs of the buyer which is a good thing. But sometimes not everyone wants that trade off of size or speed. Thankfully, the Enbio S sports both a sleek, non-intrusive modern shell and speed to rival the greats. Here are some of the things that make the Enbio S so incredible:
- The Enbio S operates at the highest class of sterilization, Class B.
- Meets all medical requirements and standards.
- A compact package (22 x 9.8 x 6.3 in / 56 x 25 x 16 cm).
- Chamber volume of 2.7L holds up to 8 packages with a max recommended weight of 1.1 lbs.
- It is so quiet you can relax by it. At only 32dB it produces less noise than common coffee machines.
- Enbio S is the fastest sterilizer on the market. It is also gloriously intuitive and easy to use.
- The highest quality for the lowest price. Operating costs that are revolutionary low.
And you can view more info on the Enbio S on our site here.
The Coltene BioSonic UC150
The BioSonic UC150 had people singing its praises since its debut. This compact countertop ultrasonic cleaner is one of the best you’ll find on the market. It sports a sleek, modern design and is entirely non-intrusive. It’s quiet and can sit both countertop and recessed if need be. It has a very user-friendly approach. Things like:
- Glove-friendly Touchscreen Display
- Externally accessible draining system
- USB Interface
- Data logging that can be transferred
- Controlled Heating
- Customized operation via user modes
- The list goes on
If this quiet, 1.5 gallon ultrasonic cleaner is something you’re interested in, we’ve got more information in an article about it here.
And you can view more info on the Coltene BioSonic UC150 here.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, maintaining rigorous infection control in veterinary settings is a shared goal, and while challenges persist, the combination of improved cleaning workflows, like the innovative custom rack system for improving workflow and efficiency throughout the clinic. Which also introduces a convenience that can catch on for others to implement and improve their practices as well.
And even coupling such processes with advanced sterilization technology like autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners. Both solutions offer a promising path in veterinary infection control moving forward. By embracing these innovations, veterinary professionals can enhance patient safety, streamline operations, and ensure the highest standards of instrument sterility, benefiting both their practice and the animals they serve.
If you have any questions about infection control, sterilization, or anything else, give us a call at 704-966-1650. You can also find our other programs available for anyone, anytime, absolutely FREE using the links below.
As always if you have any questions about this process or anything else please feel free to contact us and take advantage of our “FREE TECH SUPPORT.”
We also offer FREE VIRTUAL TECH SUPPORT to “See and Talk” with a “Real Time Live Technician” for any problems you may be in need of help with.
You can also use our “FREE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM”. Take the guesswork and worrying about what unit is due for maintenance and which maintenance cycle it is time for. We will keep track of all your autoclaves and let you know when it’s time for anything.