Analysis of cytotoxicity of surgical instruments with lumens after rinsing with different qualities of water

Abstract

The Central Sterilization & Supply Department (CSSD) must ensure the complete removal of organic and inorganic contaminants from critical materials by thoroughly rinsing them with good-quality water. Furthermore, the quality control of rinsing water is essential to prevent the toxic anterior segment syndrome. However, in everyday Brazilian CSSDs, material rinsing is commonly performed with tap water and, in general, little importance is given to the rinsing itself or the type of water used, raising concerns about the currently performed safety practices, as this procedure is contrary to the recommendations made by international organizations. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the cytotoxicity of materials after intentional contamination, automated cleaning and rinsing with different qualities of water and steam sterilization, in addition to determining which rinsing water quality (tap water, distilled water, deionized water, reverse osmosis water and ultrapure water) results in the least cytotoxic effect on NCTC clone 929 cell monolayers. The results will demonstrate strong evidence on the safest way to perform the rinsing of critical materials, with consequent prevention of toxic syndromes caused by water residues and impurities, contributing to safer and better quality care. (AU)