Purpose of packaging
A sterilization package must allow the sterilant to penetrate and contact all surfaces, then provide an effective barrier that maintains sterility during storage and handling, and finally permit aseptic presentation (opening without contaminating the contents).
Packaging materials & methods
- Woven (reusable) and non-woven (disposable) wraps — used in sequential or simultaneous double-wrap technique.
- Peel pouches — paper/plastic pouches for small, lightweight items; place the item so the handle/tip faces the peel-open end and do not overfill.
- Rigid sterilization containers — reusable containers with gaskets and filters; inspect gaskets, latches, and filters every cycle.
Labeling
Every package is labeled before sterilization with the contents/identifier, the lot control number, and the date. Use only non-toxic, indelible markers and write on the plastic side of a peel pouch or on the indicator tape — never on the porous side, which can wick ink onto the contents and compromise the barrier.
Storage, shelf life & transport
🔑 Event-related vs. time-related sterility
Most facilities follow event-related sterility: an item remains sterile until an event compromises the package (a tear, wetness/strike-through, dropped on the floor, broken seal), rather than expiring on a fixed date.
- Store sterile items in a clean, dry, controlled area on shelving at least 8–10 in (20–25 cm) above the floor, 18 in (45 cm) below sprinklers, and 2 in (5 cm) from outside walls.
- The sterile storage area is kept under positive pressure, with controlled temperature and humidity and around 4 air exchanges per hour.
- Practice first-in, first-out (FIFO) stock rotation. Inspect package integrity before dispensing.
- Transport sterile items in covered or enclosed carts to protect the packaging.
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