In order to effectively sterilize piercing needles, autoclaves must provide an ideal environment for sterilization. The chief function of an autoclave is to discourage bacterial growth. Steam sterilization is a very efficient method of killing microorganisms. The application of steam, pressure and time effectively sterilizes piercing needles. Intense heat can easily damage cell structures like cytoplasmic membranes, rendering cells inviable. Air pockets and insufficient steam supplies within an autoclave are the only occurrences that can compromise the effectiveness of steam sterilization on piercing needles.
Internal temperatures within an autoclave must reach minimum temperatures of 250 degrees Fahrenheit for proper sterilization. Internal pressures within an autoclave must reach 15 psi (pounds per square inch). Piercing needles should be placed in an autoclave for 45 minutes minimum at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and 15 psi to deal with any possible biohazard waste. The level of bacterial saturation on a piercing needle determines the amount of time the needle must stay in an autoclave for complete sterilization. If autoclave bags are being used within an autoclave, they should be left open partially to allow steam to get in the bag.
Consumers should employ certain safety measures while sterilizing needles in an autoclave. The steam from an autoclave can easily burn a person. When an autoclave has completed the sterilization process, the operator should ensure that internal pressures have lowered to near zero before opening the device. This is done to prevent steam burns. Eye goggles and heat resistant gloves also heap prevent getting burned by the steam from an autoclave. Before removing sterilized piercing needles from an autoclave, they should be given plenty of time to cool.
Sealed containers of piercing needles should never be put into an autoclave. A sealed container is likely to explode under the intense pressure and heat in an autoclave. Solvents and corrosive chemicals like chloroform should never be placed in an autoclave. Autoclaves should undergo regular inspection to ensure they are in proper working order.