Ultrasonic cleaning An ultrasonic cleaning machine is an extremely important part of cleaning surgical instruments, preferably for removing blood and surgical soils. These cleaning machines remove soil very efficiently and have been documented to clean more effectively than handwashing. Ultrasonic cleaning does not disinfect or sterilize, rather, it removes debris from crevices, joints, and other areas that are difficult to clean by other methods. For best results in ultrasonic cleaning, follow these steps: Preclean devices prior to going into ultrasonic cleaning machine. Change solution when the water looks dirty or according to your facility’s policies. The longer instruments are left in, the better Do not overload the ultrasonic cleaner as this reduces cleaning efficiency. Instruments should always be in the open (not ratcheted) position when placed in the ultrasonic cleaner. Keep lid closed when using ultrasonic machine. After changing the water/ultrasonic solution, the machine must be degassed. Run the ultrasonic machine for 10 to 15 minutes prior to loading. Only use ultrasonic cleaning solution, never soap. Dissimilar metals, such as chrome and stainless steel, should not be mixed in the same ultrasonic cycle.
