What Do You Need to Know to Operate a Tabletop Autoclave?

There is no one right answer to what do you need to know to operate a tabletop autoclave. The short answer is “it depends.” Different autoclaves are, well, different. While they all function in similar ways, if you look at the big picture, they may look slightly different and different buttons and functions. In today’s blog article, we want to explain in general terms what you need to know to operate a tabletop autoclave. 

Your Specific Autoclave 

While this may seem obvious, you need to know your particular autoclave and its operating instructions. You need to understand the different functions, buttons, and how you will achieve what you need. For example, some autoclaves create and print a paper record of each time it is used. If your autoclave does not do that, then you need to keep a manual record of the autoclave’s work and cycles. 

Materials 

You need to know what you are putting in the autoclave (or what others have placed in the autoclave, if someone else loaded it) because different materials may require different settings and shorter or longer cycles. 

Program Needed 

And you need to know what cycle you need to run. For example, are you sterilizing instruments or running a test? These are different cycles requiring pressing different buttons. 

Autoclaves are not difficult to run, but they require training which you should get from the person or company you bought it from. Always follow your training instructions and/or manufacturer’s instructions because sterilizing equipment is serious business. However, once you are familiar with your autoclave, you will have no difficulty operating it.  

If you need help choosing, repairing, maintaining, installing, operating, or validating an autoclave, this is our business and area of expertise for many years. Give us a call, in western Canada at (888) 818-4847. We can help with every aspect of autoclaves including choosing the right one for you. 

Alpha Scientific supplies, installs, and services medical equipment in western Canada. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about medical equipment, please call our toll-free number, (888) 818-4847, or email us at sales@alphascientific.ca.