ТЕСТИРОВАНИЕ РАСТВОРА В АВТОМАТИЗИРОВАННОМ УСТРОЙСТВЕ ДЛЯ ОБРАБОТКИ ЭНДОСКОПОВ

Группа изобретений относится к стерилизации эндоскопов. Устройство для обработки эндоскопов снабжено системой измерения параметров раствора, которая включает в себя: кювету для пробы раствора; источник света; светочувствительное устройство; резервуар для принятия некоторого количества раствора, содержащего пузырьки; насос, связанный с резервуаром; два пути прохождения - из резервуара в дренаж и из резервуара к кювете; систему управления. Система управления запрограммирована так, чтобы сначала насос выкачивал из резервуара часть находящегося в нем количества раствора через первый путь прохождения для удаления из резервуара находящихся в нем пузырьков, а затем направлял пробу раствора в кювету по второму пути прохождения из резервуара к кювете. Способ определения в ходе процедуры обработки эндоскопа свойств раствора, используемого для его обработки, включает: сбор некоторого количества раствора в резервуар; выведение части раствора из резервуара через первый путь прохождения для выведения ...

ИНДИКАТОР СТЕРИЛИЗАЦИИ

Группа изобретений относится к области стерилизации и может быть использована при контроле параметров стерилизации в послеразрядной камере. Индикатор стерилизации содержит соединение, нагревающееся при приведении в контакт с атомами кислорода и/или азота, и термохромный краситель, находящийся в термическом контакте с указанным соединением. Индикатор также может состоять из двух частей, одна из которых содержит соединение, нагревающееся при приведении в контакт с атомами кислорода и/или азота, и термохромный краситель, находящийся в термическом контакте с ним, а другая - термохромный краситель без соединения, нагревающегося при приведении в контакт с атомами кислорода и/или азота. Группа изобретений относится также к применению индикатора в устройстве стерилизации для индикации присутствия атомов кислорода и/или азота и индикации температуры в послеразрядной камере. Группа изобретений характеризует также варианты способа индикации присутствия атомов кислорода и/или азота в плазме, находящейся ...

ИНДИКАТОР ПРОЦЕССА СТЕРИЛИЗАЦИИ ПАРОМ

Изобретение относится к индикатору для применения в процессе стерилизации паром медицинского оборудования многоразового использования. Описывается способ стерилизации паром медицинского оборудования многоразового использования, включающий воздействие водяным паром как на указанное оборудование, так и на индикатор, причем указанный индикатор содержит в качестве активного ингредиента соль тетразолия. Изобретение позволяет удешевить процесс, сделать его менее токсичным и более наглядным, т.к. индикатор претерпевает резкое изменение цвета с бежевого на пурпурный, когда попадает в условия стерилизации паром. 19 з.п.ф-лы.

ИНДИКАТОР ДЛЯ ПЛАЗМЕННОЙ СТЕРИЛИЗАЦИИ

Изобретение относится к области химико-фармацевтической промышленности, в частности к индикаторам для плазменной стерилизации. В индикаторе для плазменной стерилизации используют азокраситель, известный и применяемый для приготовления индикаторов для газовой стерилизации этиленоксидом и индикаторов для тепловой стерилизации, и который демонстрирует быстрое изменение цвета при способе стерилизации холодной плазмой с использованием окисляющего газа, такого как пероксид водорода, при этом изменение его цвета проявляется как ясное изменение цветового оттенка. Известный и применяемый для приготовления индикаторов для газовой стерилизации этиленоксидом и индикаторов для тепловой стерилизации азокраситель применяется в сочетании с соединением, содержащим меркаптогруппу или дитиокарбамильную группу, используемым в качестве соединения, способного к взаимодействию с азокрасителем при обработке плазменной стерилизацией, и тем самым приводящего к изменению цвета азокрасителя. Помимо этого в сочетании ...

Материал для упаковки медицинских изделий

Материал для упаковки медицинских изделий, подлежащих финишной стерилизации ионизирующим излучением, включающий полимерную основу в виде ламинированной полимерной пленки и индивидуальный индикатор прохождения стерилизации в виде индивидуальных меток. Материал обеспечивает отчетливый визуальный контроль изменения цвета индикаторных меток, присутствие, по крайней мере, одной индикаторной метки на каждом стерилизуемом изделии, пригоден для упаковывания медицинских изделий различных форм и размеров, как на автоматических линиях, так и в заранее изготовленную из него упаковку. Материал может обеспечивать эффект легкого вскрытия упаковки в условиях операционной без применения режущего инструмента, исключая при этом возможность попадания частиц упаковки на медицинское изделие. Материал по полезной модели прочен, прозрачен, экономически доступен.

УСТРОЙСТВА С УЛЬТРАФИОЛЕТОВОЙ РАЗРЯДНОЙ ЛАМПОЙ И ОДНИМ ИЛИ БОЛЕЕ ОТРАЖАТЕЛЯМИ И СИСТЕМЫ, КОТОРЫЕ ОПРЕДЕЛЯЮТ РАБОЧИЕ ПАРАМЕТРЫ И ПЛАНЫ ДЕЗИНФЕКЦИИ ДЛЯ БАКТЕРИЦИДНЫХ УСТРОЙСТВ

Изобретение относится к области светотехники и может быть использовано для дезинфекции помещений. Устройство для дезинфекции помещения содержит: разрядную лампу, выполненную с возможностью испускания ультрафиолетового света; силовую цепь, выполненную с возможностью управления разрядной лампой; корпус, окружающий разрядную лампу, причем боковые стенки корпуса являются прозрачными для ультрафиолетового света, и при этом разрядная лампа и корпус размещены в устройстве таким образом, что ультрафиолетовый свет, испускаемый разрядной лампой и пропускаемый через корпус, проецируется вовне устройства; опорную конструкцию, поддерживающую нижний конец разрядной лампы; и отражательную систему, расположенную на верхнем конце разрядной лампы, при этом отражательная система выполнена с возможностью перенаправления света, пропускаемого через корпус, в область от приблизительно 0,6 м (2 футов) до приблизительно 1,22 м (4 футов) от пола помещения, в котором размещено устройство. Технический результат - ...

СПОСОБ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ НАЛИЧИЯ МИКРООРГАНИЗМОВ, ОБРАЗУЮЩИХ БИОПЛЕНКУ, В БУМАЖНОЙ ПРОМЫШЛЕННОСТИ

... 1. Способ обнаружения наличия образующих биопленку микроорганизмов в процессе производства бумаги или картона для определения потребности в добавлении в процесс агента, противодействующего образованию биопленки, характеризующийся наличием следующих стадий: (а) помещение устройства для отбора проб в технологическую линию на период времени, достаточный для того, чтобы микроорганизмы образовали биопленку in situ на поверхности устройства для отбора проб в производственном процессе, (б) обработка поверхности устройства для отбора проб с образовавшейся на ней биопленкой раствором испытываемого агента, противодействующего образованию биопленки, в течение определенного периода времени, (в) приведение поверхности устройства для отбора проб с находящейся на ней биопленкой в контакт с жидкой культуральной средой, находящейся в углублении устройства для культивирования микроорганизмов, на определенный период времени, (г) удаление культуральной среды и поверхности устройства для отбора проб из углубления ...

Тест-биоиндикатор для экспрессной оценки качества дезинвазии почвы, грунта, донных отложений, осадка сточных вод

Изобретение относится к биотехнологии. Предложен тест-биоиндикатор для экспрессной оценки качества дезинвазии почвы, грунта, донных отложений, осадка сточных вод, представляющий собой пенал-держатель кассеты из двух тест-полосок биоиндикатора, выполненный в стреловидной форме длиной 345 мм и шириной 40 мм, который состоит из двух наружных листов пластика толщиной 3 мм каждая, имеющего окно-просвет шириной 15 мм и длиной 300 мм, между наружными листами пластика установлен внутренний лист пластика толщиной 3 мм, длиной 300 мм и шириной 8-9 мм, все листы пластика пенала-держателя скрепляют между собой 13 болтами с потаенной головкой М3×6, в верхней части пенала-держателя предусмотрена ручка-держатель, а каждая тест-полоска кассеты из органического стекла длиной 300 мм, шириной 20 мм и толщиной 1-1,5 мм содержит по два отверстия диаметром 7-10 мм через каждые 50 мм и на внутренней поверхности на всю ширину и длину тест полоски клеящуюся трековую фильтрующую мембрану с диаметром пор d3-4,2 мкм ...

АППАРАТ И СПОСОБ СОЕДИНЕНИЯ ОБОРУДОВАНИЯ ДЛЯ СТЕРИЛИЗАЦИИ МЕДИЦИНСКИХ УСТРОЙСТВ

Использование флуоресцентных полимеров в маркировочных составах для диагностического определения качества уборки

Устройство и способ для стерилизации эндоскопа

УСТРОЙСТВА С УЛЬТРАФИОЛЕТОВОЙ РАЗРЯДНОЙ ЛАМПОЙ И ОДНИМ ИЛИ БОЛЕЕ ОТРАЖАТЕЛЯМИ И СИСТЕМЫ, КОТОРЫЕ ОПРЕДЕЛЯЮТ РАБОЧИЕ ПАРАМЕТРЫ И ПЛАНЫ ДЕЗИНФЕКЦИИ ДЛЯ БАКТЕРИЦИДНЫХ УСТРОЙСТВ

ИНТЕГРАТОРНАЯ СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ БЫСТРОГО ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ ГЕРМИЦИДНОЙ ОБРАБОТКИ

... 1. Способ быстрого определения эффективности процесса окислительной гермицидной обработки, где указанный способ включает обеспечение подложки с известным количеством первого химического вещества на подложке, где указанное первое химическое вещество выбрано из группы, состоящей из первичного амина, смеси первичных аминов, альдегида и смеси альдегидов, причем первое химическое вещество имеет первый цвет; воздействие на подложку известного количества первого химического вещества окислительным гермицидом, с уменьшением, тем самым, известного количества первого химического вещества до окончательного количества первого химического вещества; приведение подложки с окончательным количеством первого химического вещества, имеющего первый цвет, в контакт со вторым химическим веществом, имеющим второй цвет, с образованием, тем самым, третьего химического вещества, имеющего третий цвет, где указанный третий цвет характеризуется интенсивностью, зависящей от окончательного количества указанного первого ...

Автономный биологический индикатор

INDIKATORBAND UND VERFAHREN

Wegwerfbare Testpackungen für Dampf- oder Gassterilisatoren.

Konischer Indikator zur Verwendung in Prozess-Prüfkörpern

Indikator (22) für Prozess-Prüfkörper (PCDs) zur Überwachung von Sterilisationsprozessen, umfassend mehrere Indikatorbereiche (50, 54, 58, 62, 66), die mit einem Sterilisationsmittel reagieren und auf einem gemeinsamen Trägerelement (18) in Längsrichtung (70) des Trägerelements (18) beabstandet angeordnet sind, wobei das Trägerelement (18) sich entlang seiner Längsrichtung (70) verjüngend aufgebaut ist.

Bottle for accommodating an indicator, useful in checking the effectiveness of an ethylene oxide sterilization process, comprises an ethylene oxide non-porous material, and a membrane

A bottle (1) for accommodating an indicator (6) which checks the effectiveness of an ethylene oxide sterilization process, consists of an ethylene oxide non-porous material (6) which has a specific volume. The test piece has an opening (3) which can be closed by a membrane (4), the porosity of which can be matched to the test conditions.

Vorrichtung zum Testen und Kontrollieren von nach dem Vakuumverfahren arbeitenden Dampfsterilisatoren

Indicator for monitoring vapor sterilization, especially using formaldehyde, containing chromotropic acid disodium salt dihydrate to form permanent violet color when sterilization is complete

A chemical indicator for controlling vapor sterilization comprises an aqueous solution of chromotropic acid disodium salt dihydrate (I), to which gelatin or powdered adhesive has been added. A chemical indicator for controlling the sterilization of an article by contacting with vapor (preferably formaldehyde-water vapor) comprises a carrier supporting an indicator giving at least one color change as a result of chemical reactions during sterilization, to indicate the phase of the sterilization process taking place. The novel feature is that the indicator comprises an aqueous solution of chromotropic acid disodium salt dihydrate (I), to which gelatin or powdered adhesive has been added.

INDIKATOREN FÜR WASSERSTOFFPEROXID UND PERESSIGSÄURE UND VERFAHREN ZU IHRER VERWENDUNG

A method for cleaning the inside of hollow medical products has a spray tube within a housing held in a height adjustable fixture

The spray tube (3) is held in a fixture (23) with a height adjusting column (7) set by a screw (9) and having feet (25) for bolting down. A closing end piece (15) enables rotation of the tube and another (19) enables rotation and axial movement of the inner piston (24). Filling is by a connection (16).

Hygenic condition determining method for e.g. cable-bound patient near breath stream sensor, involves comparing temperature events with comparison values, so that indication, output and/or alarm are caused during exceedence of values

The method involves storing temperature events of an additional part (1) e.g. cable-bound patient near breath stream sensor, corresponding to a temperature exceedence of a given temperature with the corresponding times. The stored temperature events with the corresponding times are compared with comparison values for temperature and time, so that an indication, output and/or an alarm at a medical basic equipment (3) e.g. anaesthesia equipment, are caused during exceedence of the comparsion value of the temperature for a given total time or for a given number of the temperature events. An independent claim is also included for a device for executing a method for determining a hygenic condition of an additional part.

VERFAHREN UND VORRICHTUNG ZUR DEAKTIVIERUNG VON GEGENSTÄNDEN UND ZUR AUFRECHTERHALTUNG SOLCHER GEGENSTÄNDE IN EINEM DEAKTIVIERTEN ZUSTAND

Ultraviolet light discharge lamp apparatuses having transparent housings and configurations for routing gas through the housings

Improvements in or relating to disinfecting materials

Ethylene oxide treatment

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO TEMPERATURE SIMULATORS

... 1277499 Control device for sterilizers SURGICAL EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES Ltd 25 Aug 1970 [10 Nov 1969] 54932/69 Heading A5G A device for estimating the temperature within an article to be sterilized and thereby effectively controlling the operation of sterilizing equipment comprises a temperature-responsive element 14 embedded in a plug of material 13, e.g. polypropylene and contained within a sterilizing chamber 1. The nature of the plug is so chosen that the measured temperature conditions are equivalent to those within the load (e.g. of bottles 6) and the output of the element 14 may be used to control the supply of heat (e.g. as steam) to the chamber in addition to indicating the measured temperature on the meter 16. (For Figure see next page) ...

Sterilising container head

The maintenance of sterility of sterile liquids e.g. drugs in containers during supply/removal of liquid to/from the containers, in particular by a transseptual technique, is enhanced by housing the head only of the container in an internal chamber 11 of a sterilisation body 10 to which sterilisation agent e.g. vapour followed by rinsing water and air is supplied. This sterilisation technique can be extended to tubes and/or needles utilised in supply/removal of such liquid to/from the container. When the liquid is toxic, a neutralising agent for a toxin may be subsequently supplied to the closed region. A sample needle 16 gains access through valved aperture 33 and advances through self sealing head 14 into container 15. A plurality of sterilisation bodies 10 may be mounted on the external side of a wall of a common sterilised chamber (41, Figure 4), access to the chamber being through an access panel (51, Figure 3). Each sample needle may be robotically controlled. Alternatively the sterilisation ...

Apparatus and method for monitoring biofilm cleaning efficacy

Methods and devices for determining the efficacy of a cleaning, disinfecting, or sterilizing process intended to remove bioflims are provided. The devices involve a biofilm sample (200), a biofilm indicator (50), and a simulated endoscope.

FLEXIBLE PROSTHESES OF PREDETERMINED SHAPES AND PROCESS FOR MAKING SAME

APPARATUS FOR INDICATING WHETHER THE INTERIOR OF A CONTAINER HAS BEEN STERILIZED DURING A STERILIZATION PROCESS

A disposable container for surgical instruments

A disposable container for surgical instruments

A disposable container 1 for surgical instruments is provided for transporting sterile instruments to the point of use. The container comprises an enclosure with a base 6 and an upstanding wall having a securing lip defined around its upper edge. A lid is connected to an upper edge of the upstanding wall by a hinge 12. The lid includes a roof 24, an inner wall 26 extending downwardly from the roof, an outer wall 30 extending upwardly from the base of the inner wall, and a securing lip 20 at the upper end of the outer wall configured to secure over the securing lip of the base. When the lid is in the closed position the base of the inner and outer walls is located within the enclosure at a position below the securing lip with the outer wall being seated against the inner surface of the upstanding walls of the enclosure. A method of sterilizing a surgical instrument within an enclosure as described above is also claimed.

Protection of contact lenses from microbial contamination caused by handling

Device and method for determining sterilization conditions

DETECTING PRESENCE OF AIR IN STEAM STERILISER

Test device and method

Sterilisation cycle indicator tag

UNITARY STERILITY INDICATOR AND METHOD

... 1316808 Test pack for indicating the efficacy of a sterilisation process MINNESOTA MINING & MFG CO 4 June 1970 [5 June 1969; 8 May 1970] 27078/70 Heading B1X Apparatus to determine the efficacy of a sterilisation process comprises a translucent or transparent manually deformable outer container 10, which contains a predetermined number of viable micro-organisms and which has liquid impermeable and gas absorptive walls and whose end(s) is (are) closed by a gas transmissive, bacteria-impermeable closure(s) 22. A sealed, pressure openable inner container 18 contains nutrient for the micro-organisms: A detector material capable of undergoing a visable colour change in response to microorganism growth is housed within one of the containers 10, 18, e.g. on a water absorbent sheet 16, metal or glass beads. After sterilisation of the apparatus by means of, e.g. heat, radiation or by passing a gas through cap 29, the inner container 18 is broken, the apparatus incubated and any colour change noted ...

ETHYLENE OXIDE OXIDE STERILIZATION INDICATORS

... 1523227 Sterilization indicator SYBRON CORP 21 Oct 1976 [22 Dec 1975] 43736/76 Heading G1B An indicator for monitoring an ethylene oxide sterilization and aeration process comprises a substrate such as filter paper carrying an indicating composition which provides a first colour change on completion of the sterilization phase and a second colour change on completion of the aeration phase. The indicating composition may include 4(para-nitrobenzyl)-pyridine, a polyethylene glycol, thiourea and water, and the indicator may be packaged in an envelope having a front sheet of transparent polymeric material and a back sheet of spun-bonded polyolefin.

Hygiene compliance method, use and system

Water dispensing apparatus with filter integrity testing system.

Water dispenser, which comprises, in addition to a water container, a filter element contained within a filter housing having an inlet and a dispensing outlet, a source of pressure and first valve and first conduit means for feeding water from the container to the filter housing inlet; means for feeding gas to the filter inlet to create gas pressure at the inlet, consiting of a reservoir, second valve and conduit means for controling the level of the water in the reservoir, and the control means comprise third conduit and valve means for permitting or preventing the admission of water into the reservoir, a pressure gauge for monitoring the pressure at the filter inlet; and control means forcontrolling the gas feeding means to cause or stop the feeding. The source of pressure may be a copressed gas cylinder provided with valve and conduit means for controlling the admission of compressed gas from the cylinder into the water container, and the means for feeding gas to the filter inlet comprise ...

Water dispensing apparatus with filter integrity testing system

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE DECONTAMINATION AND SMELL NEUTRALIZATION OF STERILIZING GAS

DETECTION OF THE DEW POINT OF A STERILISATION STEAM

AUTOMATED TESTING OF A SOLUTION FOR ENDOSCOPE REPROCESSING

INTEGRATOR SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE FOR THE RAPID STATEMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A GERMIZIDBEHANDLUNG

SELFSEALED MEDICAL STERILISATION BAG

PROCEDURE F�R �BERPR�FBARE INACTIVATING OF PATHOGENEN IN a BIOLOGICAL FLUID BY IRRADIATION

NON-DISPERSIVE INFRARED SENSOR FOR EVAPORATED HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

TEST PACKINGS FOR STERILISATION INDICATOR

MEASURING INSTRUMENT

ETHYL OXIDE STERILISATION TEST PACKING.

EQUIPMENT FOR TESTING DAMPFSTERILISATOREN

PREVACUUMDAMPFSTERILISATIONSTESTPACKUNG.

BOWIE THICK TESTVORRICHTUNG.

VORRICHTUNG ZUR ÜBERPRÜFUNG DES REINIGUNGSERGEBNISSES BEI INSBESONDERE IN WASCHAUTOMATEN GEREINIGTEN ENDOSKOPEN

PROCEDURE FOR THE EXAMINATION OF A STERILIZATION PACKING UNIT ON EFFECTIVENESS APPROXIMATELY REKONTAMINATION

STERILIZATION CONTAINER FOR FILTERED GAS PLASMA WITH IMPROVED CIRCULATION

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE AS THE MEASUREMENT AND A CHECK OF THE CYCLE OF LIQUIDS IN ENDOSCOPE CHANNELS

TRACKING SYSTEM FOR STERILISATION MONITORING

AUTOMATIC ENDOSCOPE SUBSEQUENT TREATMENT EQUIPMENT

INSPECTION PIECE, IN PARTICULAR FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE PENETRATION CHARACTERISTICS OF A STERILIZATION MEANS DURING STERILISATION PROCESSES

STERILISATOR TESTPACKUNG.

STERILIZATION CONTAINER

INDICATOR SYSTEMS, MATERIAL COMPRESSION AND INTRODUCTION DEVICES AND MANUFACTURING PROCESSES

INSPECTION PROCEDURE FUR THE STERILISATION WITH ETHYLENOXID

VACUUM TEST SYSTEM FOR STERILISATOREN

DAMPFSTERILISATOR

SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE FOR THE REAL TIME MONITORING AND CONTROL OF TREATMENT STERILISATION AND PARAMETRIC RELEASE

TEST DEVICE AND PROCEDURE

INDICATOR INK

Ultraviolet Discharge Lamp Apparatuses With One Or More Reflectors And Systems Which Determine Operating Parameters And Disinfection Schedules For Germicidal Devices

An apparatus, comprising: a discharge lamp configured to emit ultraviolet light; a housing encircling the discharge lamp, wherein the sidewalls of the housing are transparent to ultraviolet light, and wherein the discharge lamp and the housing are arranged in the apparatus such that ultraviolet light emitted from the discharge lamp and transmitted through the housing is projected exterior to the apparatus; a gas inlet disposed at a lower end of the housing; a gas outlet disposed at an upper end of the housing; and a cap component disposed above the gas outlet to redirect exhaust discharged from the gas outlet to a side of the apparatus. N- ci 0'(0 N-N N-l C10 cci - ( ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD TO READ BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR

A method for detecting biological activity in a biological indicator comprises the steps of providing a known quantity of spores containing a fixed number of copies of an enzyme and a liquid growth medium comprising substrates of the enzyme. The enzyme substrates have a first emission spectrum, and are configured to be converted by the enzyme to substrate derivatives having a second emission spectrum. The spores are exposed to the liquid growth medium, and the liquid growth medium is measured for the second emission spectrum, and either no change in the second emission spectrum or a linear increase in the second emission spectrum, is detected as a function of time. -42 3536513vl 914-" 1000 INCUBATE MONITOR FOR CHANGE IN FLUORESCENCE is YES A LINEAR NO INCREASE IN FLUORESCENCE? MONITOR FLUID FOR ASSUME STERILIZATION CHANGE TO EXPONENTIAL CYCLE EFFECTIVE INCREASE IN AND MEDICAL DEVICE FLUORESCENCE READY FOR USE CONFIRM STERILIZATION CYCLE INEFFECTIVE AND MEDICAL DEVICE NOT READY FOR USE MEDICAL ...

Protective barrier for sterilization containers

The present disclosure provides a cover or sleeve for use with a sterilization container comprising a collapsible enclosure configured to conform to the shape and size of the sterilization container. The collapsible enclosure includes an inner layer configured to withstand a sterilization procedure and a protective layer bonded to the inner layer. The protective layer is configured to protect the inner layer and to withstand the sterilization procedure. The enclosure further comprises a sealable opening for receiving the sterilization container within the interior of the enclosure. The collapsible enclosure is universally adapted for use for a variety of validated sterilization methods, such as steam, hydrogen peroxide, gas plasma, ozone, ethylene oxide and the like and with various sterilization trays, baskets and the like.

Independent monitoring circuit for a disinfection system

A system includes a disinfection chamber having an interior volume, a radiation source to emit radiation into the interior volume, a radiation sensor circuit to detect radiation in the interior volume, an independent monitoring circuit to detect radiation in the interior volume, and a computing device that has a memory and a processor. The memory stores first radiation values captured by the radiation sensor circuit, second radiation values captured by the independent monitoring circuit, and computer instructions. The processing unit executes the computer instructions to start the emission of radiation, generate first and second accumulated radiation values from the stored values, respectively, and stop the emission of radiation after reaching a first radiation threshold. Based on a comparison of the first accumulated radiation value to the second accumulated radiation value, a validated disinfection signal or an error signal will be asserted.

APPARATUS AND METHOD TO REPEATEDLY FILL AND PURGE CHANNELS OF ENDOSCOPE

A medical device reprocessor is operable to perform a method of cleaning an internal channel of a medical device. The method entails activating a first pump to deliver a detergent to the internal channel for a first predetermined duration, activating a second pump to deliver water to the internal channel to rinse out the detergent for a second predetermined duration, and activating a third pump to deliver pressurized air to the internal channel to purge out the water or detergent contained within the internal channel for a third predetermined duration. Subsequently, the method involves activating a fourth pump to deliver a predetermined volume of disinfectant to the internal channel, and reactivating the third pump to deliver pressurized air to purge out the disinfectant into a chamber. The method repeats filling the internal channel with detergent, water and disinfectant and the subsequent purging of the internal channel with pressurized air.

Indicator ink compositions

Data transfer apparatus for an electronic device

Visual detector for vaporized hydrogen peroxide

METHOD FOR QUALIFYING BOTTLE RINSER

Self-sealed medical sterilization pouch

Method of detecting flow in endoscope channels

A device and method of taking samples from medical equipment for the purpose of microbiological testing

A device and method for use in taking a sample from an item of medical equipment for the purpose of microbiological testing, the device including: attachment means for attaching about a region of the item of medical equipment in an air-tight manner; and collection means for collecting fluid which emanates from the item of medical equipment.

Aerosol sensor

SAFETY SYRINGE NEEDLE DEVICE WITH INTERCHANGEABLE AND RETRACTABLE NEEDLE PLATFORM

AN INDICATOR SHEET FOR AN AUTOCLAVE TEST PACK

Self-contained biological indicator

The disclosed invention provides a self-contained sterilization indicator for evaluating the effectiveness of a sterilization process. The sterilization indicator includes a cap configured for housing a growth medium, the cap being mountable on a container that contains a concentration of microorganisms. The cap comprises an inner chamber for housing the growth media. The inner chamber has an opening and a breakable barrier overlying the opening for encapsulating the growth media within the inner chamber of the cap. The biological indicator is adapted for breaking the breakable barrier at a selected time to introduce the growth medium into the container such that the growth medium contacts the microorganisms.

Ultraviolet discharge lamp apparatuses with one or more reflectors and systems which determine operating parameters and disinfection schedules for germicidal devices

Apparatuses are disclosed which include a discharge lamp (22) configured to emit ultraviolet light, a power circuit (26) configured to operate the discharge lamp, and a reflector system (60) configured to redirect ultraviolet light emitted from the discharge lamp. In addition, systems are disclosed which include processor-executable program instructions for receiving data regarding characteristics of a room in which one or more disinfection sources are arranged and determining, based on the received data, individual operating parameter/s for the one or more disinfection sources. Yet other systems include processor-executable program instructions for discerning, for each of a plurality of disinfection sources, a target location, region, object or surface within a room in which the disinfection sources are arranged, comparing the target locations/regions/objects/surfaces, and executing corrective action/s upon detecting two or more locations/objects/surfaces are within a predetermined distance ...

Air removal test strip

An air removal test system for verifying adequate air removal during a sterilization cycle of a pre-vacuum type sterilizer includes specimen holder and a test strip. The test strip includes a solid indicator chemical, which liquefies and travels along a wicking element during the sterilization cycle. The test strip is configured to verify adequate removal of air during the sterilization cycle by displaying a color change through a window.

MULTI-PORT CAP FOR REAGENT CONTAINER

A liquid distribution system is configured to deliver a disinfectant solution to a medical device within an enclosure. A disinfectant concentration measuring subsystem includes a mixing chamber, a reservoir, a reservoir cap, a pump, and a concentration analysis assembly. The first mixing chamber is in fluid communication with an outlet of the liquid distribution system. The reservoir is configured to contain a reagent solution and is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber. The reservoir cap includes a static member, which is configured to couple with a supply conduit and a return conduit; and a rotating member, which is configured to rotate relative to the static member to couple the reservoir cap with the reservoir. The pump is configured to simultaneously pump the disinfectant solution and the reagent solution into the mixing chamber. The concentration analysis assembly is operable to determine a concentration of disinfectant output from the mixing chamber. 3301785vl 430434 T ...

Method and apparatus for monitoring fluid properties relating to medical device's cleanliness

Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods and apparatuses for monitoring fluid properties relating to a medical device's cleanliness. In embodiments, an apparatus for monitoring the fluid properties relating to a medical device's cleanliness comprises at least one sensor that measures a pre-cleaning parameters of a cleaning fluid and a post-cleaning parameters of the cleaning fluid, a cleaning chamber coupled to the at least one sensor, the cleaning chamber configured to receive the medical device and clean the medical device using the cleaning fluid, and a processing device coupled to the at least one sensor. The processing device is configured to: determine a cleanliness of the medical device based on a comparison between the post-cleaning parameters and the pre-cleaning parameters; and output the cleanliness of the medical device to a display device.

Self-contained biological indicator

Systems for monitoring and controlling disinfection

A disinfection monitoring system, comprising: a sensor module configured to detect use of one or more disinfectants on a surface or in an area; a data logger module connected to the sensor module and configured to log data relating to detected uses of the one or more disinfectants; and a wireless communication module connected to the data logger module and configured to wirelessly communicate the logged data relating to detected use of the one or more disinfectants to a remote monitoring module.

DISPOSABLE STERILIZER MECHANICAL AIR REMOVAL TEST PACK

INDICATOR ELEMENTS FOR AUTOCLAVES

Uv-c sterilizer

Упаковка для стерилизации изделий

Полезная модель относится к области упаковки для стерилизации изделий, в частности, медицинского назначения различными способами (паровая, газовая, радиационная, воздушная и т.д.). Упаковка для стерилизации изделий выполнена в виде прямоугольного конверта, изготовленного из двух слоев, причем один слой выполнен из листа термостойкого материала, а второй слой представляет собой лист водостойкого бумажного материала, с образованием по периметру с трех сторон сварных швов и открытого устья. Открытое устье может быть снабжено закрывающим клапаном с двухсторонней липкой лентой, закрытой слоем антиадгезивной бумаги. Упаковка дополнительно содержит средство удержания индикатора, выполненное в виде кармана, конструктивно отделенного от стерильной зоны посредством сварного шва и расположенного в боковой верхней части упаковки в зоне открытого устья. Полезная модель позволяет исключить возможность загрязнения или негативного влияния компонентов индикатора на стерилизуемое изделие. 1ил. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 168 864 U1 (51) МПК A61L 2/26 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ФОРМУЛА ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ (21)(22) Заявка: 2016146546, 28.11.2016 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 28.11.2016 21.02.2017 Адрес для переписки: 129110, Москва, а/я 165, Зуйкову С.А. (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: RU 84706 U1, 20.07.2009. RU 133730 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 28.11.2016 U1, 27.10.2013. RU 131969 U1, 10.09.2013. CA 2846939 A1, 26.10.2010. JP 2015073588 A, 20.04.2015. US 6767509 B1, 27.07.2004. 1 6 8 8 6 4 (45) Опубликовано: 21.02.2017 Бюл. № 6 (73) Патентообладатель(и): Василиотти Константин Александрович (RU), Евдокимова Елена Геннадьевна (RU), Фахрутдинова Гюзель Рамузовна (RU) R U Дата регистрации: (72) Автор(ы): Василиотти Константин Александрович (RU), Евдокимова Елена Геннадьевна (RU), Фахрутдинова Гюзель Рамузовна (RU) 1 6 8 8 6 4 R U (57) Формула полезной ...

Химико-биологический индикатор контроля стерилизации изделий медицинского назначения

Индикатор контроля стерилизации, содержащий стойкую к условиям стерилизации основу, на лицевую сторону которой нанесены эталонная метка и индикаторная метка. Индикаторная метка представляет собой зональное покрытие, выполненное с применением термочувствительной композиции, необратимо меняющей свой цвет после цикла стерилизации. Обратная сторона основы покрыта адгезивным слоем и защитным антиадгезивным покрытием, предназначенным для предохранения адгезивного слоя индикатора вплоть до его закрепления на контролируемом объекте. От прототипа отличается тем, что зональное покрытие дополнительно содержит споры тест-микроорганизмов, фиксация которых осуществлена с применением упомянутой термочувствительной композиции. Фиксация спор тест-микроорганизмов может быть осуществлена двумя способами:- споры тест-микроорганизмов нанесены на подложку и зафиксированы покрывающим слоем, сформированным из термочувствительной композиции индикаторной метки. То есть, индикаторная метка выполнена двухслойной;- споры тест-микроорганизмов включены в состав термочувствительной композиции и участвуют в формировании индикаторной метки. Достигаемый технический результат - универсальность индикатора, то есть обеспечение возможности осуществления как химического контроля, так и биологического. 2 з.п. ф-лы. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 201 570 U1 (51) МПК A61L 2/28 (2006.01) G01K 11/12 (2006.01) C12M 1/34 (2006.01) C12Q 1/22 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК A61L 2/28 (2020.08); G01K 11/12 (2020.08); C12M 1/34 (2020.08); C12Q 1/22 (2020.08) (21)(22) Заявка: 2020133519, 12.10.2020 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: (73) Патентообладатель(и): Котченко Руслан Григорьевич (RU) Дата регистрации: 21.12.2020 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 12.10.2020 (45) Опубликовано: 21.12.2020 Бюл. № 36 2 0 1 5 7 0 R U (54) Химико-биологический индикатор контроля стерилизации изделий медицинского назначения (57) ...

Бактерицидный рециркулятор

Предлагаемая полезная модель относится к медицинской и бытовой технике.Техническим результатом предложенной полезной модели является обеспечение надежного контроля за функционированием УФ-излучателей.Бактерицидный рециркулятор содержит основание с торцевыми крышками, в которых выполнены отверстия для ввода и вывода воздуха, кожух, расположенный между торцевыми крышками и основанием, с образованием камеры облучения, в которой установлена газоразрядная ртутная лампа, при этом рециркулятор имеет также блок управления, связанный с индикатором, устройство измерения эмиссии УФ-излучения и микропроцессорный пороговый компаратор, а устройство измерения эмиссии УФ-излучения имеет корпус, на котором установлены опорный датчик и измерительный датчик, каждый из которых подключен к микропроцессорному пороговому компаратору, выполненному с возможностью регистрации, сравнения и обработки сигналов, поступающих с измерительного и опорного датчиков. 7 з.п. ф-лы, 6 ил. РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 204 805 U1 (51) МПК A61L 9/20 (2006.01) A61L 2/10 (2006.01) A61L 2/24 (2006.01) A61L 2/28 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (52) СПК A61L 9/20 (2021.02); A61L 2/10 (2021.02); A61L 2/24 (2021.02); A61L 2/28 (2021.02) (21)(22) Заявка: 2021105565, 04.03.2021 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: (73) Патентообладатель(и): Беньков Александр Васильевич (RU) Дата регистрации: 11.06.2021 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 04.03.2021 (45) Опубликовано: 11.06.2021 Бюл. № 17 2 0 4 8 0 5 R U (54) Бактерицидный рециркулятор (57) Реферат: Предлагаемая полезная модель относится к медицинской и бытовой технике. Техническим результатом предложенной полезной модели является обеспечение надежного контроля за функционированием УФ-излучателей. Бактерицидный рециркулятор содержит основание с торцевыми крышками, в которых выполнены отверстия для ввода и вывода воздуха, кожух, расположенный между торцевыми крышками и ...

Method for inspecting the inside of a narrow hose or tube particularly for medical use

Method and system for inspecting the inside of a small channel, e.g. a flexible tube or hose, particularly for medical use, e.g. included in an endoscope, for the presence of inside contaminations on the wall of the tube, comprising providing the inside of the channel with a liquid having a refractive index which is higher than the refractive index of the channel wall, transmitting a signal into one end of the channel having a wavelength w, comparing the spectrum of the signal received at the other end of the channel with the wavelength w of the transmitted signal and determining, e.g. by a spectrum analyzer, whether the latter signal contains any wavelength w′ which is unequal to the wavelength w of the transmitted signal, and indicating that, when not any wavelength w′ is determined unequal to w, the channel is not contaminated or that, when any wavelength w′ is determined unequal to w, the channel is contaminated. The system may include means for cleaning the inside of the channel by means of said liquid having a refractive index which can be higher than the refractive index of the channel wall which thus is used both as cleaning liquid and as light conducting core.

Method of controlling a decontamination process

A method of controlling a multi-step decontamination process is disclosed. The method comprises assigning articles into a plurality of groups, processing the articles through a first and/or second sub-process of the multi-step decontamination process, quantifying a biological analyte associated with residue on or in the processed articles, and setting action limits for the first and second sub-processes. A method and a system for monitoring the control of the decontamination process are also disclosed.

Method and apparatus for decontamination of tubing

Embodiments of the invention generally provide an apparatus and method for decontaminating tubing. The invention is particularly suitable for decontaminating tubing in a test system used for certifying a filter in a containment system. In one embodiment, a test system for a containment system is provide that includes a sample system including equipment adapted for testing a filter disposed in a containment system utilizing samples obtained from a downstream sample port and a upstream sample port of the containment system, and a device for reversing a flow within the sample system. In another aspect of the invention, a method for decontaminating tubing is provided. In another embodiment, the method includes flowing a sterilization agent through tubing in a first direction and flowing the sterilization agent through tubing in a second direction.

Cyanoacrylate Adhesive Compositions, Methods of Sterilization of the Compositions, and Articles of Manufacture Containing Such Compositions

The viscosities of 2-cyanoacrylate adhesive compositions are adjusted by the addition of polymeric thickeners to a preferred initial viscosity that will not increase significantly when sterilized by heating them at a temperature of no greater than about 110° C. for no more than about 120 minutes. Articles of manufacture are vials or squeezable tubes containing these compositions.

Test pack to monitor effectiveness of sterilization process

A sterilization test pack, including a base comprising a pair of recessed compartments, wherein the recessed compartments are arranged in a non-concentric relationship and are in fluid communication with each other; a cover attached to the base and forming a sealed enclosure for the recessed compartments; an external channel providing the only fluid communication between the sealed enclosure and an external environment; a selected sterilization indicator in a first of the recessed compartments; and a chemical integrator and/or a chemical indicator in a second of the recessed compartments, in which the external channel is configured to allow only restricted flow of a gaseous sterilization medium into the recessed compartments and the base and cover are otherwise impenetrable by the gaseous sterilization medium.

Biological sterilization indicator system and method

A biological sterilization indicator (BI) system and method. The system can include a BI and a reading apparatus comprising a well. The BI can include a housing, which can include a first portion, and a second portion movable between a first “unactivated” position and a second “activated” position. The BI can further include a frangible container containing a liquid and dimensioned to be positioned in the housing. The reading apparatus can be configured to detect activation of the biological sterilization indicator, for example, by detecting that the second portion is in the second position, and/or by detecting that the liquid from the frangible container is present in a specific chamber of the biological sterilization indicator. The method can include positioning the BI in the well of the reading apparatus and detecting activation, for example, by detecting one or more of the above conditions.

REAL TIME INDICATOR FOR QUATERNARY AMMONIUM COMPOUND CONCENTRATION

The present disclosure generally relates to a color indicator that signals when the concentration of an antimicrobial solution changes. In some embodiments, the color indicator is specific for changes in the concentration of an antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound in an antimicrobial solution. The color indicator can be incorporated into a variety of articles including towels, labels, containers, buckets, trays, sinks, spray bottles, liners for containers, buckets, sinks, or spray bottles, indictor wands or strips, and test kits. 1. A plastic article comprising:(a) a shaped plastic; and(b) a color changing dye selected from the group consisting of anionic dyes that are purple in the presence of quaternary ammonium compounds, wherein the dye imparts a color-changing property to the article such that the article is a first color if the concentration of a quaternary ammonium compound is above a threshold and a second color if the concentration of the quaternary ammonium compound is below the threshold.2. The plastic article of claim 1 , wherein:(a) the plastic is selected from the group consisting of high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene acrylic acid, ethylene methacrylic acid, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, and mixtures thereof; and(b) the color changing dye is selected from the group consisting of Acid Violet 148, bromothymol blue, alkali purple, and mixtures thereof.3. The article of claim 1 , wherein the threshold is 100 ppm of the quaternary ammonium compound.4. The article of claim 1 , wherein the dye is pH stable.5. The article of claim 1 , wherein the article is configured to be a bucket claim 1 , a sink claim 1 , a spray bottle claim 1 , an applicator claim 1 , a strip claim 1 , a coupon claim 1 , or a spayer dip tube.6. A method of monitoring the concentration of quaternary ammonium compound using an ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TESTING TREATMENTS WHICH INTRODUCE ENERGY INTO OBJECTS

The method comprises the following steps: bonding at least one chemical, optically luminescent compound () onto at least one indicator element () for testing the treatments (), wherein at least one luminescence property of the chemical compound () can be changed; assigning at least one indicator element () to the object (); wherein the indicator element () and the object () are simultaneously subjected to the same conditions of the energy-introducing treatment (); changing the luminescence property of the chemical compound (), wherein the level of the change to the luminescence property depends upon the energy-introducing treatment (); irradiating () the chemical compound () with electromagnetic radiation directed onto the indicator () for excitation of the luminescence during the energy-introducing treatment or following the energy-introducing treatment (). 1141. Method for testing of energy entering treatments () on objects () comprising the following steps{'b': 3', '6', '14', '3, 'bonding of at least one chemical compound () capable of optical luminescence, on at least one indicator element () for testing the treatments (), wherein at least one luminescence property of the chemical compound () is changeable,'}{'b': 6', '1', '6', '1', '14, 'coordinating of at least one indicator element () to the object (), wherein the indicator element () and the object () are simultaneously subjected to the same conditions of the energy entering treatment (),'}{'b': 3', '14, 'changing of the luminescence property of the chemical compound (), wherein the level of the change of the luminescence property depends on the energy entering treatment (),'}{'b': 13', '3', '6', '14', '14', '14, 'irradiation () of the chemical compound () with an electromagnetic radiation directed toward the indicator element () for exciting of luminescence during the energy entering treatment or following to the energy entering treatment () for detection of energy entering momentary treatment () or energy ...

Audio and Light Fungal Growth Indicator

A device was invented with a sensor that would allow for determining fungal growth. When fungal growth occurs the sensors would be activated emitting audio, light and actual voice commands. The device provides; a low cost, simplicity of use and function, and its ability to fulfill a need for the means to determine growth of fungi placed behind closed doors or beyond the point of view. This device may be used for pathogenic fungal growth in medical and veterinary facilities, also in laboratories examining environmental pollution. The automatic sensing methodology also allows for a reduced chance for the preparer to be contaminated through exposure by reducing the need of continual examination of the fungal growth.

WASH MONITOR AND METHOD OF USE

The present disclosure provides a monitoring device comprising a test composition, a test element comprising a test portion to which the test composition is releasably adhered, a detection reagent, and a container comprising a first end with an opening and a second end opposite the first end. The test composition comprises a predetermined quantity of tracer analyte. The container is configured to receive the test portion and configured to be operationally coupled to an analytical instrument. The tracer analyte and the detection reagent each are capable of participating in one or more chemical reaction that results in the formation of a detectable product. A method of using the monitoring device to assess the efficacy of a washing process is also provided. 1. A monitoring device , comprising:a test composition comprising a predetermined quantity of tracer analyte;a test element comprising a test portion to which the test composition is releasably adhered;a detection reagent; anda container comprising a first end with an opening and a second end opposite the first end;wherein the container is configured to receive the test portion and configured to be operationally coupled to an analytical instrument;wherein the tracer analyte and the detection reagent are capable of participating in one or more chemical reaction that results in the formation of a detectable product.2. The monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein the test portion comprises at least one recessed area claim 1 , wherein the test composition is adhered in the recessed area.3. The monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein the test composition further comprises a polymeric binder.4. The monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein the tracer analyte is selected from the group consisting of a plurality of viable microorganisms or a biomolecule associated therewith claim 1 , an acid claim 1 , a base claim 1 , a nucleotide claim 1 , a protein claim 1 , a nucleic acid claim 1 , a carbohydrate claim 1 , or hemoglobin.5. ...

SANITATION SYSTEMS FOR AIRCRAFT

A sanitization system can include a housing defining an interior volume, and one or more FAR-UVC light sources disposed within the housing and configured to irradiate at least a portion of the interior volume. The interior volume can be configured to receive one or more user hands or portions thereof to sanitize the one or more user hands and/or portions thereof. 1. A sanitization system , comprising:a housing defining an interior volume; andone or more FAR-UVC light sources disposed within the housing and configured to irradiate at least a portion of the interior volume, wherein the interior volume is configured to receive one or more user hands or portions thereof to sanitize the one or more user hands and/or portions thereof.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more FAR-UVC light sources include at least one FAR-UVC light source disposed on each internal surface of each wall of the housing.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the housing defines an enclosed chamber having an opening.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the housing includes five walls.5. The system of claim 3 , further comprising a proximity sensor disposed on or within the housing and configured to detect when a user has inserted a hand and/or portion thereof into the enclosed chamber.6. The system of claim 5 , further comprising a control module operatively connected to the proximity sensor and to each FAR-UVC light sources to turn on each FAR-UVC light source when a user's hand and/or portion thereof is detected by the proximity sensor.7. The system of claim 3 , further comprising one or more visible lights disposed within the internal volume to indicate that the device is active when in use claim 3 , wherein the control module is configured to turn on the one or more visible lights when the one or more FAR-UVC light sources are turned on.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more FAR-UVC light sources is a FAR-UVC LED that emits light between about 207 nm to about 222 nm.9. An ...

USE OF FLUORESCENT POLYMERS IN MARKING COMPOSITIONS FOR THE DIAGNOSTIC DETERMINATION OF CLEANING PERFORMANCE

The present invention generally relates to fluorescent marking compositions and their use to determine whether a surface has been cleaned. More particularly, the marking compositions comprise fluorescent polymers. 135.-. (canceled)38. The composition of claim 37 , whereinthe fluorescent monomer unit has the structure (I) and is 4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide vinyl benzyl chloride quaternary salt, 4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl chloride quaternary salt, or 4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide allyl chloride quaternary salt;the fluorescent monomer unit has the structure (II) and is N-allyl-4-(2-N′,N′-dimethylaminoethoxy)naphthalimide methyl sulfate quaternary salt; orthe fluorescent monomer unit has the structure (III) and is 5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole or 6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole.40. The composition of claim 39 , whereinthe fluorescent monomer unit has the structure (IV) and is sulfonated-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)benzo (k,l) xanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic imide 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt, sulfonated-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)benzo (k,l) xanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic imide vinyl benzyl chloride quaternary salt, or sulfonated-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)benzo (k,l) xanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic imide allyl chloride quaternary salt; orthe fluorescent monomer unit has structure (V) and is N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)benzo (k,l) xanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic imide allyl chloride quaternary salt.43. The composition of claim 42 , wherein the polymer has the formula GQWor GQWSand wherein Q is acrylic acid; the polymer has the formula GQWand wherein Q is acrylic acid and W is acrylamide; the polymer has the formula GQWand wherein Q is acrylic acid and W is 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid; or the polymer has the formula the GQWSand wherein Q is acrylic acid claim 42 , W is acrylamide claim ...

BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR FOR MONITORING A LOW-TEMPERATURE STERILIZATION PROCESS

An article and method are provided for assessing the efficacy of a sterilization process. The article comprises an outer container having an interior volume; a dry source of measurable biological activity disposed in the interior volume; and an effective amount of a dry agent for neutralizing a sterilant compound; wherein both the source of measurable biological activity and the agent are in vapor communication with an environment outside the outer container. The method comprises exposing the article to a first sterilant and, optionally, a second sterilant for a period of time and detecting the measurable biological activity. 1. An article , comprising:an outer container having an interior volume, a first end comprising an opening, and a second end;a dry source of measurable biological activity disposed in the interior volume; andan effective amount of a dry agent for neutralizing hydrogen-peroxide, the agent being disposed in the interior volume;wherein both the source of measurable biological activity and the agent are in vapor communication with an environment outside the outer container.2. The article of claim 1 , further comprising a layer that is permeable to hydrogen peroxide claim 1 , wherein the layer is coupled to the outer container or the closure claim 1 , wherein the layer is interposed between the source of measurable biological activity and the environment outside the outer container.3. The article of claim 1 , wherein the source of measurable biological activity comprises an enzyme activity or a microorganism capable of reproducing.4. The article of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the source of measurable biological activity is disposed in a first coating.5. The article of claim 4 , wherein the article further comprises a first substrate claim 4 , wherein the first coating is disposed on the first substrate.6. The article of claim 1 , wherein the agent is selected from a group consisting of catalase claim 1 , a thiosulfate salt claim 1 , a bisulfite ...

Sterilization Container With Battery Powered Sensor Module For Monitoring The Environment In The Container

A sterilization container with a sensor module for monitoring the environmental characteristics internal to the container. The sensor module includes a normally closed end bore. A sensor is disposed in the closed end void space. Other sensors also part of the module monitor the pressure and temperature of the environment inside the container. Based on the measurements of the environment in the container and the environment within the closed end void space it is possible to determine the extent to which the container is filled with saturated steam.

FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM INCLUDING A DISINFECTANT DEVICE

A fluid delivery system illustratively includes a spout, at least one valve in fluid communication with the spout, and a disinfectant device, illustratively an antibacterial device, fluidly coupled to the spout. The faucet is configured to selectively flow water through the disinfectant device in response to a user input to the faucet. In another illustrative embodiment, the fluid delivery system includes an outer housing, a plurality of fluid devices supported by the outer housing, and an ozone generator fluidly coupled to the fluid devices. 1. A faucet comprising:a spout including a waterway defining an outlet;at least one valve in fluid communication with the waterway of the spout;a controller in communication with the at least one valve; anda disinfectant device fluidly coupled to the waterway of the spout, the faucet being configured to selectively flow fluid through the disinfectant device in response to an input to the controller.2. The faucet of claim 1 , wherein the disinfectant device includes an antibacterial device.3. The faucet of claim 2 , wherein the antibacterial device includes an electrolytic ozone generator.4. The faucet of claim 3 , wherein the antibacterial device includes a first electrolytic ozone generator in serial fluid communication with a second electrolytic ozone generator.5. The faucet of claim 3 , wherein the ozone generator comprises:an outer cartridge; a first housing;', 'an anode coupled to the first housing;', 'a second housing', 'a cathode coupled to the second housing;', 'a separator positioned between the anode and the cathode; and', 'a holder that couples the first housing to the second housing independently of the outer cartridge., 'an electrolytic cell assembly received within the outer cartridge, the electrolytic cell assembly comprising6. The faucet of claim 1 , further comprising a sensor in communication with the controller and configured to detect a user's hands in proximity to the spout claim 1 , the controller ...

ADDITIVE COMPOSITIONS FOR PIGMENTED DISINFECTION AND METHODS THEREOF

The invention provides to a powdered composition of additives and a method of use thereof for increasing the visibility, potency and coverage of disinfectant solutions, such as bleach. 1104-. (canceled)105. A solid composition , comprising particles of:a surfactant selected from sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, and sodium 3,4-dichlorobenzoate,a water-soluble pigment, andan alkaline builder selected from sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.106. The composition of claim 105 , further comprising a thickening agent.107. The composition of claim 105 , further comprising a hydrotrope.108. The composition of claim 106 , wherein the thickening agent is selected from sodium alginate claim 106 , glycerol claim 106 , guar gum claim 106 , dextran claim 106 , and cellulose.109. The composition of claim 107 , wherein the hydrotrope is selected from sodium p-toluenesulfonate claim 107 , potassium toluene-4-sulphonate claim 107 , sodium xylenesulfonate claim 107 , potassium xylenesulphonate claim 107 , and sodium cumenesulfonate.110. The composition of claim 107 , claim 107 , or claim 107 , wherein the surfactant comprises sodium dodecyl sulfate.111. The composition of claim 107 , claim 107 , or claim 107 , wherein the alkaline builder is sodium hydroxide.112. The composition of claim 107 , claim 107 , or claim 107 , wherein the pigment is selected from one or more of FD&C Blue #1 claim 107 , fast green FCF claim 107 , erythrosine claim 107 , allura red AC claim 107 , tartrazine claim 107 , sunset yellow FCF claim 107 , indigo carmine claim 107 , betanin claim 107 , chlorophyllin claim 107 , caramel coloring claim 107 , butterfly pea claim 107 , pandan claim 107 , ultramarine claim 107 , cobalt blue claim 107 , phthalocyanine claim 107 , and Coomassie Brilliant Blue.113. A method for increasing the visibility of a disinfectant solution applied to a surface claim 107 , the method comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM ...

PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF A STERILIZED CERAMIC BODY COMPRISING OR ESSENTIALLY CONSISTING OF STABILIZED ZIRCONIA OF A DEFINED COLOUR

A process for the preparation of a sterilized ceramic body including or essentially consisting of stabilized zirconia of a defined colour, including the steps of: providing a ceramic primary body including or essentially consisting of stabilized zirconia of a first colour A, and sterilizing the primary body using radiation sterilization whereby the primary body undergoes a colour change to a colour B. The process includes the further step of irradiating the sterilized primary body with electromagnetic radiation of at least one wavelength lying in the wavelength band ranging from 150 nm to 700 nm to induce an at least partial reversal of the colour change to obtain a colour C of the sterilized ceramic body, the colour C complying with the following requirements in the CIELAB colour space: L* being from 54 to 95, a* being from −15 to 15 and b* being from −15 to 15. 1. Process for the preparation of a sterilized ceramic body comprising or essentially consisting of stabilized zirconia of a defined colour , the process comprising the subsequent steps ofa) providing a ceramic primary body comprising or essentially consisting of stabilized zirconia of a first colour A,b) sterilizing the primary body using radiation sterilization whereby the primary body undergoes a colour change to a colour B,wherein it comprises the further step of L* being from 54 to 95,', 'a* being from −15 to 15 and', 'b* being from −15 to 15., 'c) irradiating the sterilized primary body with electromagnetic radiation of at least one wavelength lying in the wavelength band ranging from 150 nm to 700 nm to induce an at least partial reversal of the colour change of step b) to obtain a colour C of the sterilized ceramic body, the colour C complying with the following requirements in the CIELAB colour space2. Process according to claim 1 , wherein in step c) the sterilized primary body is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation of at least one wavelength lying in the wavelength band ranging from 150 nm ...

ULTRAVIOLET PATHOGEN DISINFECTION SYSTEM

A pathogen disinfection system includes a light array, a proximity sensor, and a controller configured to send and receive signals to the light array and proximity sensor. The light array comprises a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light emitters and a plurality of visible light emitters. Each of the UV and visible light emitter is configured to produce an individual light beam having an individual volume between the emitter and an individual target surface area located at a given distance away from the emitter. Further, each UV light emitter is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a mean peak wavelength between 200-280 nanometer to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light. Moreover, the controller is configured to send a first signal to the array to activate the array and a second signal to the array to deactivate the array. 1. A pathogen disinfection system for a seating arrangement having at least one table surface and at least one seating surface comprising:a light array;a proximity sensor; anda controller configured to send and receive signals to the light array and proximity sensor;wherein the light array comprises a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources and a plurality of visible light sources;wherein each UV light source of the plurality of UV light sources and each visible light source of the plurality of visible light sources is individually pointable towards a corresponding individual target surface area of the seating arrangement so that the plurality of UV light sources and the plurality of visible light sources of the light array respectively emit a plurality of individual UV and visible light beams in individual directions that combine to produce a collective light beam to illuminate and disinfect a collective target surface area of the seating arrangement that includes the at least one table surface and the at least one seating surface;wherein each of the UV light sources is configured to emit ultraviolet ...

System, Method, and Device for Facilitating Effective Decontamination as Part of a Decontamination Event

Systems and methods for assessing the effectiveness of a decontamination event to decontaminate a portion of at least one of skin or a covering of the skin of an individual. A water dispenser housing a light source and an agent dispensing system. The light source to emit light in accordance with a predetermined field of view, and to emit the light at a sufficient intensity and wavelength to cause a fluorescent agent dispensed by the agent dispensing system to fluoresce. The field of view defines an inspection space in which the portion of the individual can be positioned to detect at least one of a presence or an absence of the fluorescent agent during the decontamination event. 1. A water dispenser for facilitating effective decontamination of a portion of at least one of skin or a covering of the skin of an individual as part of a decontamination event , the water dispenser comprising:a housing, wherein the water dispenser is adapted to communicate water from a water source to the skin or a covering of the skin of the individual;an agent dispensing system supported in the housing and configured to dispense a composition from a chamber via a conduit that passes through the housing, the composition comprising a skin cleansing agent and a fluorescent agent capable of fluorescing when exposed to light; anda light source supported in the housing so as to emit light in accordance with a predetermined field of view, wherein the light source is configured to emit the light at a sufficient intensity and wavelength so as to cause the fluorescent agent disposed about the skin or a covering of the skin of the individual to fluoresce at a wavelength in the visible spectrum, the field of view defines, at least in part, an inspection space in which the portion of the skin or the covering of the skin of the individual can be positioned to detect the at least one of a presence or an absence of fluorescing fluorescent agent during the decontamination event.2. The water dispenser of ...

ADDITIVE COMPOSITIONS FOR PIGMENTED DISINFECTION AND METHODS THEREOF

The invention provides to a powdered composition of additives and a method of use thereof for increasing the visibility, potency and coverage of disinfectant solutions, such as bleach. 1. A method for disinfecting a surface or an object , the method comprising(i) providing a colored disinfection solution comprising a disinfectant; a surfactant; and a colorant; wherein the colorant is sufficient to color the disinfectant solution; and(ii) applying the colored disinfectant solution to the surface or object in need of disinfection;wherein, the color of the disinfectant solution clearly marks where the disinfectant solution has or has not been applied and the color of the disinfectant solution fades to clear within a period of time.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the period of time is from 3 to 30 minutes.3. (canceled)4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the period of time is for up to 15 minutes.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the disinfectant solution is an aqueous bleach solution.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the disinfectant solution comprises one or more disinfectants selected from sodium hypochlorite claim 1 , calcium hypochlorite claim 1 , hydrogen peroxide claim 1 , peracetic acid claim 1 , and benzalkonium chloride.7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the surfactant is selected from sodium dodecyl sulfate claim 1 , sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate claim 1 , hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide claim 1 , and sodium 3 claim 1 ,4-dichlorobenzoate.8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprises a thickening agent.9. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprising a hydrotrope.10. The method according to claim 8 , wherein the thickening agent is selected from sodium alginate claim 8 , glycerol claim 8 , guar gum claim 8 , dextran claim 8 , and cellulose.11. The method according to claim 9 , wherein the hydrotrope is selected from sodium p-toluenesulfonate ...

METHODS FOR USING INDICATOR COMPOSITIONS

An indicator composition can be exposed to various environmental conditions stimuli such as in sterilization or storage processes. This indicator composition has a) a first polymeric particle comprising a solid continuous polymeric phase and a first reactant, the first polymeric particle having a mode particle size equal to or less than 50 μm; and b) a second reactant outside of the first polymeric particle, which second reactant is capable of reacting with the first reactant when exposed to a chosen environmental condition stimulus. The indicator composition can be used by exposing it to the environmental condition stimulus for a sufficient time to cause a detectable change in the indicator composition such as a detectable color change. 1. A method for indicating an environmental condition stimulus , the method comprising: a) a first polymeric particle comprising a solid continuous polymeric phase and a first reactant, the first polymeric particle having a mode particle size equal to or less than 50 μm; and', 'b) a second reactant outside of the first polymeric particle, which second reactant is capable of reacting with the first reactant when exposed to an environmental condition stimulus., 'exposing an indicator composition to an environmental condition stimulus to cause a detectable change in the indicator composition, the indicator composition comprising2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:exposing the indicator composition to electromagnetic radiation, saturated steam, ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, dry heat greater than 100° C., or any combination of these environmental condition stimuli, sufficient to cause a detectable change in the indicator composition.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:exposing the indicator composition to a chemical or biological agent sufficient to cause a detectable change in the indicator composition.4. The method of claim 1 , comprising exposing the indicator composition for more than 1 minute to saturated steam or dry heat above ...

APPARATUS, METHOD, AND SYSTEM FOR INDICATION OF AN OXIDATIVE TREATMENT

An indicator and method of use thereof, and indicator system and method of use thereof are provided to determine the degree of an oxidative treatment. An indicator is incorporated into the oxidative treatment. The object and the indicator are subjected to the oxidative treatment. A discoloration of the indicator occurs based on an oxidation of the polymer by a process condition of the oxidative treatment oxidizing the polymer. The discoloration of the indicator is measured against a threshold color value to determine the degree of the oxidative treatment. 1. A method for determining a degree of an oxidative treatment of an object , the method comprising:incorporating into the oxidative treatment an indicator, the indicator comprising a polymer;subjecting the object and the indicator to the oxidative treatment, a discoloration of the indicator occurring based on an oxidation of the polymer by a process condition of the oxidative treatment oxidizing the polymer; andmeasuring the discoloration of the indicator against a threshold color value to determine the degree of the oxidative treatment.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymer further comprises a group selected from an amine claim 1 , a methylene claim 1 , and a methine.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the discoloration of the indicator at least partly occurs through oxidization of the group.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the oxidizing of the group comprises forming a quinone.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the quinone comprises a quinone-imide.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measuring of the discoloration comprises measuring at least one of an absorption and a reflection of electromagnetic radiation by the indicator.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the measuring at least one of the absorption and the reflection of the electromagnetic radiation by the indicator is at a wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measuring of the discoloration comprises utilizing a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING DISINFECTION OF A DEVICE

Various embodiments illustrated herein disclose a method for monitoring disinfection of a device. The method includes receiving sensor data from a plurality of sensors positioned at a respective plurality of surfaces of the device. The sensor data indicates that a disinfecting agent is applied on one or more surfaces of the plurality of surfaces of the device. The method further includes determining at least one exposure characteristic based on the sensor data. The at least one exposure characteristic is associated with disinfection of the one or more surfaces of the device by the disinfecting agent. The method further includes comparing the at least one exposure characteristic to a threshold parameter associated with the at least one exposure characteristic. In response to the comparison, the method further includes generating a notification indicating that the one or more surfaces of the device are disinfected. 1. A method for monitoring disinfection of a device , the method comprising:receiving, by a processor of the device, sensor data from a plurality of sensors positioned at a respective plurality of surfaces of the device, wherein the sensor data indicates that a disinfecting agent is applied on one or more surfaces of the plurality of surfaces of the device;determining, by the processor, at least one exposure characteristic based on the sensor data, wherein the at least one exposure characteristic is associated with disinfection of the one or more surfaces of the device by the disinfecting agent;comparing, by the processor, the at least one exposure characteristic to a threshold parameter associated with the at least one exposure characteristic; andin response to the comparison, generating, by the processor, a first notification indicating that the one or more surfaces of the device are disinfected.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one exposure characteristic comprises at least one of a measure of moisture content on the one or more surfaces of ...

SELF-CONTAINED BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR

A SCBI useful in ambient air pressure systems is disclosed. The SCBI includes a body which serves as the culture tube, a glass media ampoule, an inoculated stainless steel disc positioned on the top of the glass media ampoule so that the spores are close to the top/opening of the SCBI, filter paper on the top of the body and overlying the disc, and a cap. 1. A method of determining the accuracy of a sterilization or decontamination process in a sterilization chamber comprising the steps of:placing a self-contained biological indicator (SCBI) in said sterilization chamber in an open position wherein a sterilant gas will enter said SCBI;said SCBI comprising a body adapted to serve as a culture tube, said body having a cylindrical side wall which does not contain any recessed areas, a bottom wall at one end of the cylindrical side wall closing the body, a collar at the other end of the cylindrical side wall extending outwardly from the cylindrical side wall having an open end having an interior diameter greater than an interior diameter of the cylindrical side wall and adapted to receive a cap, said collar including a plurality of inwardly extending ribs; a cap adapted to engage said body in an open position and a closed position, said cap including a top wall and a cylindrical side wall adapted to engage said collar of said body, said cylindrical side wall including a plurality of apertures; a rupturable glass ampoule including a growth media in said body; and a stainless steel disc inoculated with spores on top of said glass ampoule and adjacent said plurality of ribs;subjecting said sterilization chamber to said sterilant gas;removing said SCBI from said sterilization chamber;rupturing said glass ampoule in said SCBI to release said growth media to said body of said SCBI, wherein said stainless steel disc is adapted to drop down into said cylindrical side wall of said body to contact said inoculated spores with said growth media; andclosing said SCBI and determining ...

Fluorinated 4'-Alkylumbelliferyl a-D-Glucopyranosides, Biological Sterilization Indicators Including The Same And Methods Of Using The Same

A self-contained biological sterilization indicator comprises: a housing; bacterial spores comprising, and/or capable of producing, an enzyme capable of catalyzing cleavage of an enzyme substrate; and a frangible container containing a composition, wherein the composition comprises the enzyme substrate, wherein if the frangible container is broken the composition will contact the bacterial spores to form a mixture having an initial pH in the range from 6.0 to 9.0. The enzyme substrate comprises a fluorinated 4′-alkylumbelliferyl α-D-glucopyranoside represented by the structural formula (I) wherein one of Rand Ris F and the other is H, and Ris an alkyl group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms. A biological sterilization indicator comprising a kit containing isolated components comprising (i) bacterial spores comprising, and/or capable of producing, an enzyme capable of catalyzing cleavage of the enzyme substrate and a method of assessing efficacy of a sterilization process are also disclosed. 2. The fluorinated 4′-alkylumbelliferyl α-D-glucopyranoside of claim 1 , wherein Ris an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.3. (canceled)4. (canceled)6. The self-contained biological sterilization indicator of claim 5 , wherein the self-contained biological sterilization indicator is disposed inside a process-challenge device.7. The self-contained biological sterilization indicator of claim 5 , wherein Ris an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.8. The self-contained biological sterilization indicator of claim 5 , wherein the self-contained biological sterilization indicator is capable of determining efficacy of two or more cycles chosen from the powerset of 121 gravity claim 5 , 121 pre-vac claim 5 , 121 SFPP claim 5 , 132 gravity claim 5 , 132 pre-vac claim 5 , 132 SFPP claim 5 , 134 pre-vac claim 5 , 134 SFPP claim 5 , 135 gravity claim 5 , 135 pre-vac claim 5 , and 135 SFPP.11. The self-contained biological sterilization indicator of claim 5 , wherein the mixture has an ...

Method and System for Steam Sterilization of Endoscopes

A method and device for high-pressure, high-temperature steam sterilization of endoscopes includes pressure resistant fittings to attach a steam generator to the ports of an endoscope. The method and device allows for high-pressure, high-temperature steam to circulate throughout the endoscope, exposing various surfaces to steam for sterilization. The method and device also allows for high-pressure, high-temperature steam to circulate selectively through the channels of the endoscope, selectively sterilizing the channels and allowing for use of this method with current high-level disinfection methods. The method and device also allows for movement of the scope elevator channel during the sterilization process, allowing for steam to reach the crevices around the elevator and other moving parts of an endoscope. 1. A method of disinfecting or sterilizing an endoscope where the endoscope has an external surface and a lumen , said method comprising the steps of:attaching a pressure resistance fitting to the scope tip or one of the openings of the lumen; anddelivering super-heated steam through the pressure fitting.2. The method of claim 1 , further including the step of attaching a suction mechanism to one of the other openings of the lumen and suctioning the super-heated steam.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the delivery of superheated steam and the rate of suction are controlled by a microprocessor.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein at least one temperature or pressure sensor is housed in a path of the superheated steam and wherein said method further comprises the step of using data from said at least one sensor to control the rate of flow of superheated steam or the rate of suction.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein said microprocessor includes a user interface to input data from an operator and provide progress information back to the operator.6. An apparatus for disinfecting or sterilizing an endoscope claim 3 , comprising:at least one pressure resistant ...

Sanitizing wipe with metal detectable printed indicia

An article is provided having a substrate with an indicia printed on the substrate, where the indicia is printed with an ink that is detectable by in-line manufacturing production X-ray, metal, or magnetic detectors. A package for multiple such articles is also provided. A process for detecting a sanitizable substrate wipe with magnetic, metal, or X-ray detection equipment in a production setting is also provided. With process implementation article loss in a product can be detected thereby reducing precautionary product discard.

WATER-BASED STERILIZATION INDICATOR COMPOSITION

Water-based formulations comprising an indicating composition dispersed in water are described. The water-based indicating compositions include an organic Bi(III) compound, a sulfur source, a carbonate salt, and strontium hydroxide. Formulations further including a resin and/or an acidic additive are also described. 3. The indicator formulation of claim 1 , wherein the indicating composition comprises bismuth subcarbonate formed in situ.4. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , wherein both the organic Bi(III) compound and the sulfur source have solubility in water at 20° C. of less than 5 grams/100 ml.5. The indicator formulation of claim 4 , wherein at least one of the organic Bi(III) compound and the sulfur source have solubility in water at 20° C. of less than 1 gram/100 ml.6. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , wherein the organic Bi(III) is selected from the group consisting of bismuth subsalicylate claim 1 , bismuth citrate claim 1 , bismuth tartrate claim 1 , and combinations thereof.7. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , wherein the sulfur source is selected from the group consisting of sulfur claim 1 , 1 claim 1 ,3-diphenylthiourea claim 1 , sodium thiosulfate claim 1 , and combinations thereof.8. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , wherein the carbonate salt is selected from the group consisting of lithium carbonate claim 1 , magnesium carbonate claim 1 , sodium carbonate claim 1 , sodium bicarbonate claim 1 , and combinations thereof.9. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , further comprising an acidic compound.10. The indicator formulation of claim 9 , wherein the acidic compound is non-polymeric.11. The indicator formulation of claim 10 , wherein the acidic compound is selected from the group consisting of citric acid claim 10 , gallic acid claim 10 , oxalic acid claim 10 , and combinations thereof.12. The indicator formulation according to claim 1 , further comprising a resin.13. The ...

Faucet For Handwashing Feedback With Integrated Dispenser

A “smart-faucet” is provided that provides instructions and feedback to a user that improves the efficacy of a handwashing event. The faucet includes a supply of sanitizer that includes a visualization component, such as a fluorescent component, that assists the user in determining sanitizing coverage of the hands. The visualization component may require the presence of an energy source radiating a specific frequency, such as UV, in order to become visible. The faucet may further be able to communicate information to a remote location regarding supply data necessary to insure just in time delivery of a replacement supply of sanitizer.

APPARATUS FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF BIO-CONTAMINANTS BASED UPON MEASUREMENT OF SATURATION OF LIGHT INTENSITIES AT FLUORESCENCE WAVELENGTH RELATIVE TO LIGHT INTENSITIES AT A PREDETERMINED WAVELENGTH

A method for optical detection of residual soil on articles (such as medical instruments and equipment), after completion of a washing or a rinsing operation by a washer. A soil detection system provides an indication of soil on the articles by detecting luminescent radiation emanating from the soil in the presence of ambient light. 1. A soil detection system for detecting presence of soil on an article treated with a fluorescent agent bound to soil present on the article , the soil detection system comprising: a light source for producing laser light at an excitation wavelength for the fluorescence wavelength to be incident on the article,', 'a light filter for filtering light emanating from said article at first and second predetermined wavelengths including the fluorescence wavelength, said light emanating from said article including ambient light reflected by the article and light emitted by exciting the fluorescent agent bound to the soil with the laser light;', 'a light detector for detecting the filtered light emanating from said article and generating light data corresponding thereto, and, 'a scanning unit for scanning the article, the fluorescent agent emitting fluorescent light at a fluorescence wavelength, the scanning unit includinga control unit for receiving the light data generated by the detector to determine the presence of soil on the article based upon features detected at the fluorescence wavelength by comparing intensities of the filtered light at the two predetermined wavelengths, thereby discriminating between soil fluorescence and ambient light reflections.2. A soil detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the first and second predetermined wavelengths comprise a red light wavelength and a green light wavelength corresponding to the fluorescence wavelength.3. A soil detection system according to claim 2 , wherein said light detector is an image sensor that acquires and transmits to the control unit detected light data indicative of an ...

INSTRUMENT STERILIZATION MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD

An instrument sterilization monitoring system and an instrument sterilization monitoring method are provided. The instrument sterilization monitoring system includes a server, a sterilization device, and a mobile device. An image capturing module of the mobile device is used to capture image information of a first sterilization device indication device in the sterilization device, image information of a first sterilization device indication label, image information of a second instrument indication device, and image information of a second instrument indication label which are disposed outside an instrument package. The image information is uploaded to the server. The server determines, according to the image information, whether or not the instrument package meets a sterilization standard. 1. An instrument sterilization monitoring system , comprising:a server; anda sterilization device being used to perform a sterilization procedure on a plurality of instruments to be sterilized;wherein a mobile device including an image capturing module is used by a user to log in to the server; andthe server determines, according to image information of a plurality of sterilization device indication devices of the sterilization device and image information of a plurality of instrument indication devices of the instruments to be sterilized, whether or not the sterilization device and the instruments to be sterilized reach a plurality of sterilization standards.2. The instrument sterilization monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein a first sterilization device indication device and a second sterilization device indication device are disposed in the sterilization device; at least one of the instruments to be sterilized and a first instrument indication device are placed together in a packaging material claim 1 , to form an instrument package; a second instrument indication device is disposed outside the instrument package; the plurality of instruments to be sterilized is packaged to ...

Activator System for Biological Indicator

A system for assessing efficacy of a sterilization process is disclosed. The system includes a biological indicator, a receptacle configured to receive the biological indicator, an actuator mechanism, and a sensing system operatively coupled to the actuator mechanism. A method of using the system for assessing efficacy of a sterilization process is also disclosed. 1. A system for assessing efficacy of a sterilization process , comprising:a biological indicator;a receptacle configured to receive the biological indicator;an actuator mechanism; anda sensing system configured to sense conditions of the sterilization process, wherein the sensing system is operatively coupled to the actuator mechanism.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the biological indicator comprises a source of biological activity disposed therein.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the biological indicator comprises a sealed reservoir.4. A device claim 1 , comprising:a receptacle configured to receive a biological indicator;an actuator mechanism; anda sensing system configured to sense conditions of the sterilization process, wherein the sensing system is operatively coupled to the actuator mechanism.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism comprises a part that is configured to move from a first position to a second position.6. The system of ;wherein the receptacle comprises a compartment configured to hold the biological indicator;wherein the compartment defines a volume;wherein the second position is located within the volume.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensing system is capable of sensing a parameter selected from the group consisting of pressure claim 1 , temperature claim 1 , time claim 1 , and a combination of any two or more of the foregoing parameters.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensing system comprises a temperature-responsive chemical.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the temperature-reactive chemical has a first density when in a solid state and a ...

Biological sterilization indicator with sterilant resistance modulator

A self-contained biological sterilization indicator is provided. The self-contained biological sterilization indicator includes an outer container having at least one liquid-impermeable wall and an interior volume; a sealed, openable, liquid-impermeable inner container enclosing a predetermined volume of an aqueous medium; a dry coating that comprises i) a plurality of viable test microorganisms useful to detect exposure to an oxidative sterilant and ii) an effective amount of a sterilant-resistance modulator; and a pathway that permits vapor communication between the interior volume and an atmosphere outside the outer container. The inner container and the dry coating are disposed in the interior volume. The modulator comprises an amino acid. The effective amount causes an increase in sensitivity of the test microorganisms to the oxidative sterilant relative to an otherwise-identical dry coating that lacks the effective amount.

SEALABLE DECONTAMINATION HOLDING VESSEL FOR ISOLATING CONTAMINATED ITEMS

A sealable decontamination holding vessel configured to isolate contaminated items being held therein until safe opening of the vessel occurs during a high pressure and temperature sterilization cycle in an autoclave. The vessel basically includes an outer container, a perforated inner receptacle, containment bag and cover lid. The inner receptacle fits into the outer container. The containment bag fits within the inner receptacle with an open end of the bag draped over an open top lip of the inner receptacle. The cover lid is secured and sealed over the open top of the outer container. Patches of self-adhering sealing materials are placed over vent holes in the outer container and cover lid so as to seal the same until they unseal in response to contact with sterilizing steam in the autoclave allowing flow of the steam through the outer container into the inner receptacle and containment bag. 1. A sealable decontamination holding vessel for isolating contaminated items , comprising:an outer container having an open top and an interior holding chamber;an inner receptacle having an open top and an interior confining chamber, the inner receptacle fitting through the open top of the outer container and into the interior holding chamber of the outer container so as to provide a void between the outer container and the inner receptacle;a cover lid securable and sealable over and upon the open top of the outer container; andat least one vent in at least one of the outer container and the cover lid being configured to allow flow of sterilizing fluid through the vents and into the inner receptacle to contact contaminated items contained in the inner receptacle.2. The sealable decontamination holding vessel of claim 1 , further comprising at least one seal patch closing the at least one vent.3. The sealable decontamination holding vessel of claim 2 , wherein the at least one seal patch is configured to unseal in response to contact with the sterilizing fluid.4. The sealable ...

Electric Light Radiant Energy Control Systems

Radiant energy control systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided. An example light emitting device may comprise a sensor operable to detect whether a space is occupied, and a controller in communication with the sensor and operable to cause output, via a first light emitter for a first time period in the space, of a white light comprising a spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm, cause output, via a second light emitter for a second time period in the space, of a non-white light comprising a spectral energy greater than 70% energy in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm, and switch, based on whether the space is occupied and to achieve a minimum dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm during a third period that includes the first time period and the second time period, between causing output of the white light and causing output of the non-white light. 1. A light emitting device comprising:a sensor operable to detect whether a space is occupied; and cause output, via a first light emitter and for a first time period in the space, of a white light comprising a spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a wavelength range of 380 to 420 nanometers (nm);', 'cause output, via a second light emitter and for a second time period in the space, of a non-white light comprising a spectral energy greater than 70% energy in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm; and', 'switch, based on whether the space is occupied and to achieve a minimum dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm during a third period that includes the first time period and the second time period, between causing output of the white light and causing output of the non-white light., 'a controller in communication with the sensor and operable to2. The light emitting device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further operable to:determine a dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm for the first time period;compare the dosage ...

PROCESS FOR DETERMINING VIABILITY OF TEST MICROORGANISMS OF BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR AND STERILIZATION DETECTION DEVICE FOR DETERMINING SAME

A process for determining the viability of a biological indicator includes exposing the biological indicator to a viability detection medium, the biological indicator including test microorganisms, the exposing the biological indicator to the viability detection medium producing a gaseous reaction product when one or more of the test microorganisms are viable. The presence or absence of the gaseous reaction product produced by the biological indicator combined with the viability detection medium is detected with a sensing device, the sensing device comprising an electro-mechanical sensor, wherein the presence of the gaseous reaction product indicates the presence of viable test microorganisms and the absence of the gaseous reaction product indicates the absence of viable test microorganisms. A sterilization detection device includes a container configured to contain the biological indicator, a viability detection medium, and the sensing device. 1. A process for determining the viability of a biological indicator , the process comprising:exposing the biological indicator to a viability detection medium, the biological indicator comprising test microorganisms, the exposing the biological indicator to the viability detection medium producing a gaseous reaction product when one or more of the test microorganisms are viable; anddetecting with a sensing device the presence or absence of the gaseous reaction product produced by the biological indicator combined with the viability detection medium, the sensing device comprising an electro-mechanical sensor, wherein the presence of the gaseous reaction product indicates the presence of viable test microorganisms and the absence of the gaseous reaction product indicates the absence of viable test microorganisms.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the viability detection medium causes viable test microorganisms of the biological indicator to metabolically respond and produce the gaseous reaction product.3. The process of claim ...

Amperometric gas sensor

The disclosed invention relates to an amperometric gas sensor for measuring the concentration of an analyte, comprising: a solid support; and a working electrode in contact with the solid support; wherein the analyte comprises a dopant which when in contact with the solid support increases the electrical conductivity of the solid support. A sterilization process employing the amperometric gas sensor is disclosed.

POST-STEAM STERILIZATION MOISTURE-INDICATING ARTICLES

Post-steam sterilization wet pack indicators are described. The indicators generally comprise a moisture-impermeable layer having a first surface and a moisture-indicating layer comprising a reversible colorimetric steam-sterilization-compatible moisture-indicating medium. The moisture-indicating layer is disposed on or near the first surface of the moisture-impermeable layer. The area of the moisture-indicating layer is dimensionally smaller than the moisture-impermeable layer such that the edges of the moisture-impermeable layer extend beyond the edges of the moisture-indicating layer. Articles and packages comprising wet pack indicators are also described. 1. A post-steam sterilization wet pack indicator comprising:a moisture-impermeable layer having a first surface; anda moisture-indicating layer;wherein the moisture-indicating layer comprises a reversible colorimetric steam-sterilization-compatible moisture-indicating medium;wherein the moisture-indicating layer is disposed on or near the first surface of the moisture-impermeable layer; andwherein the moisture-indicating layer is dimensionally smaller than the moisture-impermeable layer, and the edges of the moisture-impermeable layer extend beyond the edges of the moisture-indicating layer.2. The post-steam sterilization wet pack indicator of claim 1 , further comprising a release liner claim 1 , wherein the moisture-impermeable layer is peripherally bonded to the release liner such that the moisture indicating layer is disposed between the release liner and the moisture-impermeable layer.3. The post-steam sterilization wet pack indicator according to claim 1 , further comprising at least one middle layer disposed between the moisture-impermeable layer and the moisture-indicating layer.4. The post-steam sterilization wet pack indicator according to claim 3 , wherein the at least one middle layer is selected from the group consisting of an impermeable layer claim 3 , an adhesive layer claim 3 , and a color- ...

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF CLEANING OPERATIONS

The present disclosure relates to a process and a system for assessing the performance of cleaning operations by utilizing an automatic read out routine for test strips subjected to a cleaning operation. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a computer program product capable of performing the process. 1. An imaging box for use in an image capture procedure for the performance assessment of cleaning operations , comprising:a housing defined by a front surface and a back surface and forming an interior cavity when the housing is placed on a substantially flat surface, the front surface having a receptacle configured to receive a mobile device,the front surface further including at least one camera aperture configured to correspond to the position of a camera lens of the mobile device when the mobile device is received in the receptacle,the back surface including a test strip slot configured to receive and hold a chemical test strip comprising a carrier and an indicator means in a substantially flat position,the back surface further including a test strip aperture configured to correspond to the position of a chemical test strip when received into the test strip slot, such that an image of the chemical test strip may be captured by the camera of the mobile device when the chemical test strip is inserted into the test strip slot such that the indicator means is facing the interior cavity of the housing.2. The imaging box of claim 1 , wherein the front surface of the housing further includes a flash aperture configured to correspond to the position of a light emitting flash of the mobile device when the mobile device is received in the receptacle.3. The imaging box of further including at least one diffusing rib positioned within the interior cavity of the housing to diffuse light emitted from the flash of the mobile device.4. The imaging box of further comprising a light source positioned within the interior cavity of the housing.5. The imaging box of further ...

System and method for cleaning and disinfecting shopping carts

The present invention provides a system and method for cleaning and disinfecting shopping carts. The system comprises a main housing with three main systems: a steam system, an ultraviolet system and a microwave system. The combination of the systems allows for the reduction of germs and viruses without the use of chemicals which may be both harmful to the shopping carts and to the environment. A conveying means allows shopping carts to be displaced through the system. The system further provides a disinfecting box in connection with the main housing for users to disinfect their hands. The method provided allows for the cleaning and disinfecting of a shopping cart with the use of the system. 1) A system for cleaning and disinfecting at least a shopping cart , the system comprising:a main housing configured to house the at least one shopping cart and having an entry point and an exit point, the entry and exit points being closable;a conveying means configured to displace the at least one shopping cart from the entry point to the exit point;a steam system configured to emit steam in the main housing;an ultraviolet system configured to emit ultraviolet light in the main housing; anda microwave system configured to emit microwaves in the main housing.2) The system of claim 1 , the steam system comprising a water tank containing pressurised water and at least one spray fluidly connected to the water tank.3) The system of claim 2 , the steam system further comprising a heating system for heating the pressurised water.4) The system of claim 1 , the steam being at a temperature in a range of 60 to 90° C.5) The system of claim 1 , the emitted ultraviolet light having a wavelength in a range of 100 nm to 280 nm.6) The system of claim 1 , the system further comprising a disinfecting box for washing hands of a user claim 1 , wherein the ultraviolet system is further configured to emit ultraviolet light in the disinfecting box.7) The system of claim 1 , the emitted microwaves ...

Instrument disinfection

Instrument disinfecting apparatus and method. The instrument disinfecting apparatus includes a first nozzle sized to be positioned with respect to an instrument to at least partially disinfect the instrument, a first hose configured to operably connect with the first nozzle, and a disinfectant generator. The disinfectant generator is configured to operably connect with the first hose and emit a disinfectant agent into the first hose so that the disinfectant agent travels through the first hose and exits the first nozzle to at least partially disinfectant the instrument. 1. An instrument disinfecting apparatus comprising:a first nozzle sized to be positioned with respect to an instrument to at least partially disinfect the instrument;a first hose configured to operably connect with the first nozzle; and operably connect with the first hose, and', 'emit a disinfectant agent into the first hose so that the disinfectant agent travels through the first hose and exits the first nozzle to at least partially disinfect the instrument., 'a disinfectant generator configured to2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first hose includes a plurality of apertures to emit the disinfectant agent from the first hose to at least partially disinfect the instrument.3. The apparatus of wherein the disinfectant generator includes at least one ultrasonic transducer configured to volatize a disinfectant liquid to a fog or mist to create the disinfectant agent.4. The apparatus of further comprising at least a second hose configured to:operably connect with the disinfectant generator to receive the disinfectant agent, andemit the disinfectant agent to at least partially disinfect the instrument.5. The apparatus of wherein the first hose is configured to at least partially disinfect a first instrument claim 4 , and the second hose is configured to at least partially disinfect a second instrument at a same time the first hose at least partially disinfects the first instrument.6. The apparatus ...

INTEGRATED CHEMICAL INDICATOR DEVICE

A chemical indicator device for use in detecting exposure to an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, comprising a substrate or support upon which is disposed a chemical indicator composition (ink) for detecting an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. The chemical indicator composition further comprises an indicator dye that achieves a distinct range of different color changes with clear transitions between colors, upon exposure to different doses of the oxidizing agent, thus allowing for both a qualitative and semi-quantitative assessment of exposure to the agent. 1. A chemical indicator device for monitoring a sterilization process that uses an oxidizing agent as a sterilant and for semi-quantitatively assessing the dose of the oxidizing agent to which an object is exposed during a single sterilization cycle , consisting of:a. a support; (i) pararosaniline base, present in amounts ranging from about 0.05 wt. % to about 10 wt. %;', '(ii) a binder present in amounts ranging from about 5 wt. % to about 90 wt. %;', '(iii) a UV-protectant present in amounts ranging from about 0.5 wt. % to about 5 wt. %;', '(iv) a silicone-based anti-foaming agent present in amounts ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. %; and', '(v) a plasticizer present in amounts ranging from about 0.5 to about 5 wt. %,, 'b. a chemical indicator ink composition dispersed in a uniform concentration on the support, consisting of'}wherein the wt. % are based upon the total weight of the composition, wherein a uniform concentration of pararosaniline base, when reacted directly with the oxidizing agent, achieves a range of different, distinct color changes over time in response to exposure to different doses of the oxidizing agent during a single sterilization cycle, andwherein the colors achieved by the pararosaniline base are compared to a pre-calibrated, visual color chart so that a semi-quantitative assessment of the dose of the oxidizing agent to which an object was exposed can be ...

APPARATUS FOR OPTICAL DETECTION OF BIO-CONTAMINANTS BY COMPARING INTENSITIES OF FILTERED LIGHT AT TWO PREDETERMINED WAVELENGTHS

A method for optical detection of residual soil on articles (such as medical instruments and equipment), after completion of a washing or a rinsing operation by a washer. A soil detection system provides an indication of soil on the articles by detecting luminescent radiation emanating from the soil in the presence of ambient light. 1. A soil detection system for detecting presence of soil on an article , the soil detection system comprising: a light source for producing incident light on the article, the incident light having an excitation wavelength for producing the fluorescent light at the fluorescence wavelength,', 'a light filter for filtering the light emanating from said article at the fluorescence wavelength and a second predetermined wavelength,', 'a light detector for detecting the filtered light emanating from said article and generating light data corresponding thereto, said light emanating from said article including ambient light reflected by the article and light emitted by exciting the fluorescent agent bound to the soil, and, 'a scanning unit for scanning the article treated with a fluorescent agent bound to soil present on the article, the fluorescent agent emitting fluorescent light at a fluorescence wavelength, said scanning unit includinga control unit for receiving the light data generated by the detector to determine the presence of soil on the article by spectrally discriminating between the fluorescent light and the ambient light reflections based upon a measure of saturation of light intensities of combined fluorescent light and ambient light at the fluorescence wavelength relative to light intensities of ambient light at the second predetermined wavelength.2. A soil detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the light source for producing incident light comprises a device able to emit a monochromatic electromagnetic field in an ambient light environment.3. A soil detection system according to claim 2 , wherein the light source is a ...

System and Method for Tracking Sterilized Items and Sterilizers

The disclosure relates to a device and method for tracking status of sterilization for a sterilized package being sterilized in a sterilizer. The method comprises executing instructions on a or at a computing device that: track in a database a status of a first sterilization test relating to the sterilized package being sterilized in the sterilizer; track in the database a status of a second sterilization test relating to the sterilized package being sterilized in the sterilizer; generate on a display controlled by the computing device a graphical user interface (GUI) showing the status of the first and second sterilization tests; and upon a change of the status of the first sterilization test in the database, update the GUI to show an updated status of the first biological test. 1. A method for tracking status of sterilization for a sterilized package being sterilized in a sterilizer by executing instructions on a processor at a computing device , the method comprising:tracking in a database a status of a first sterilization test from a first indicator relating to the sterilized package being sterilized in the sterilizer;tracking in the database a status of a second sterilization test a second indicator relating to the sterilized package being sterilized in the sterilizer;generating on a display controlled by the computing device a graphical user interface (GUI) showing the status of the first and second sterilization tests; andupon a change of the status of the first sterilization test in the database, updating the GUI to show an updated status of the first biological test.2. The method for tracking status of sterilization for a sterilized package being sterilized in a sterilizer as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising:extracting identification data from the database relating the sterilized package; andsending instructions to a printer connected to the computing device to print a label with the identification data.3. The method for tracking status of ...

STERILIZATION DEVICE

Described herein generally are sterilization devices that can allow sterilization of luminal connection ports. Methods of using these devices are also described. 1. A sterilization device comprising:a body comprising at least one indicator light, a battery, and a light source; andan adapter cap;wherein the adapter cap is inserted into a luminal connection port.2. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the battery is at least 6 volts.3. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the indicator lights turn green after the luminal connection port is sterilized.4. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the light source is a light emitting diode.5. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the light source emits ultraviolet C light.6. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the light source has a wavelength of about 275 nm.7. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the light source has a power of about 30 mW.8. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the adapter cap is sterile.9. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the adapter cap is disposable.10. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein the adapter cap is a male luer.11. The sterilization device of claim 1 , further including a switch claim 1 , at least one or more sensors claim 1 , or a multi-sensor to activate the sterilization device.12. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein sterilization occurs in less than about 10 sec.13. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein sterilization occurs in less than about 5 sec.14. The sterilization device of claim 1 , wherein microbial reduction is a 7-log microbial reduction.15. A method of sterilization claim 1 , the method comprising:inserting a luminal connection port into a sterilization device to apply sterilizing light to the luminal connection port,wherein the device sterilizes the surface of the luminal connection port.16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the sterilizing light is ultraviolet light.17. The ...

CHEMICAL INDICATOR FOR MONITORING HYDROGEN PEROXIDE STERILIZATION AND DISINFECTION PROCESSES

This invention relates to a chemical indicator for monitoring a vaporous hydrogen peroxide sterilization process. The chemical indicator comprises a reactive composition adhered to a substrate, the reactive composition comprising a transition metal reagent, an oxidizing agent, and a resin. A test pack containing the chemical indicator and a biological indicator is disclosed. Vaporous hydrogen peroxide sterilization processes using the chemical indicator and the test pack are disclosed. 1. A chemical indicator for monitoring a vaporous hydrogen peroxide sterilization process , comprising:a reactive composition adhered to a substrate;the reactive composition comprising a transition metal reagent, and an oxidizing agent selected from potassium dichromate, sodium dichromate, potassium permanganate, or a mixture of two or more thereof; anda resin for adhering the transition metal reagent and the oxidizing agent to the substrate.2. The chemical indicator of wherein the transition metal reagent comprises iron claim 1 , copper claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , manganese claim 1 , molybdenum claim 1 , zinc claim 1 , titanium claim 1 , vanadium claim 1 , silver claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , platinum claim 1 , or a combination of two or more thereof.3. The chemical indicator of wherein the transition metal reagent comprises iron.4. The chemical indicator of wherein the transition metal reagent comprises potassium ferricyanide or Prussian blue.5. The chemical indicator of wherein the resin comprises gum arabic; gum ghatti; guar gum; locust (carob)bean gum; karaya gum; gum tragacanth; chicle; rosin ester; tall oil; manila copais; corn gluten; coumarone-indene resin; crown gum; damar gum; polydimethylstyrene; gum elemi; rosin glycerol ester; ethylene vinyl acetate; polyamide; ethylene oxide polymer; ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolymer; galbanum resin; gellan gum; ghatti gum; gluten gum; gualac gum; guarana gum; heptyl paraben; cellulose resin; isobutylene-isoprene copolymer; mastic ...

Apparatus for the Disinfection of Medical Instruments

Devices, methods and systems of disinfecting medical instruments, more particularly blood glucose meters. A disinfection cradle including a flat base for positioning the cradle on a surface, the cradle having a receptacle configured to receive the diagnostic apparatus, and a UV source positioned in the receptacle that is configured to administer a disinfection cycle to the diagnostic apparatus by directing UV light outward at the diagnostic apparatus received in the receptacle, the UV light being able to act as a disinfecting agent to the disinfection cradle and diagnostic apparatus.

STERILIZER

A sterilizer comprises a sterilization chamber () with a test device () for testing the effectiveness of a sterilization process. The test device (), in turn, comprises a test element () with a sensor () for measuring at least one parameter, and cooling mechanism () for cooling the test element (). The test device (), as a whole, is completely accommodated within the interior () of the sterilization chamber () 120-. (canceled)21. A sterilizer having:a sterilizer chamber, anda test device for testing the effectiveness of a sterilization process,wherein the test device comprises a test element having a sensor for measuring at least one parameter,a cooling means for cooling the test element, and the test device is arranged entirely and completely within an interior of the sterilizer chamber.22. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the test device additionally comprises a probe which is attached to the test element.23. The sterilizer as claimed in either of claim 21 , wherein the test element is embodied as a capsule with an interior.24. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 22 , wherein the test element is embodied as a capsule with an interior claim 22 , and the interior of the capsule is in directly or indirectly fluidic communication with the sterilizer chamber via the probe.25. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 24 , wherein the sensor and the probe are attached to or arranged at different ends of the capsule.26. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the sensor is suitable for measuring a parameter selected from a list consisting of temperature claim 21 , pressure and humidity.27. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the sterilizer chamber is subdivided into a loading area and a testing area claim 21 , and the test device is arranged in the testing area.28. The sterilizer as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the cooling means for cooling the test element comprises a heat transfer section for passing through a coolant or a refrigerant.29. ...

Biological indicator for disinfection process challenge device

A method of verifying the efficacy of a disinfection process is provided. The method includes flowing a liquid disinfectant into an indicator device that has a plurality of indicator microorganisms disposed therein, the indicator microorganisms comprising or capable of producing a detectable enzyme activity; contacting the indicator microorganisms with the liquid disinfectant for a predetermined minimum first period of time at a first temperature; after contacting the indicator microorganisms with the liquid disinfectant for the first period of time at the first temperature, contacting the indicator microorganisms for a second period of time with a detection medium comprising a detection reagent; and during or after the second period of time, detecting a quantity of the detectable enzyme activity that was not inactivated by the contact with the disinfectant. The indicator device is also provided.

STERILIZATION SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED INSTRUMENT RECALL CAPABILITIES AND RELATED METHODS

A sterilization system with integrated instrument recall capabilities and related methods is disclosed. In one aspect, the sterilization system is adapted to determine a failed sterilization cycle of a sterilizer in response to failure of a biological indicator test for the sterilizer, identify sterilization cycles to be recalled based on the failed sterilization cycle, identify one or more patients for whom an item in a recalled sterilization cycle was used, and initiate a patient notification routine comprising at least one of outputting of identifying information of the one or more patients for whom an item in the recalled sterilization cycle was used and notifying the one or more patients for whom an item in the recalled sterilization cycle was used about the recalled sterilization cycle. 1. A sterilization system , comprising:a controller comprising a processor and a memory coupled to the processor;one or more sterilizers coupled to the controller;a printer coupled to the controller; receive, by the controller, first sterilization cycle data for the sterilization cycle, the first sterilization cycle data comprising one or more mechanical indicator values for the sterilization cycle;', 'receive, by the controller, second sterilization cycle data for the sterilization cycle; and', automatically generate a sterilization record in accordance with the first sterilization cycle data and second sterilization cycle data,', 'automatically store, by the controller, the sterilization record in a sterilization database, the sterilization record comprising a number of fields, the fields comprising a date of sterilization identifying a date upon which a sterilization cycle was performed, a sterilizer identifier (ID) identifying a sterilizer used in the sterilization cycle, a load type, a number of items sterilized in the load for which all of the chemical indicators matched predetermined criteria and which passed a visual inspection, an ID of a staff member who inspected and ...

SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING DISINFECTION

A disinfection monitoring system, comprising: a sensor module configured to detect use of one or more disinfectants on a surface or in an area; a data logger module connected to the sensor module and configured to log data relating to detected uses of the one or more disinfectants; and a wireless communication module connected to the data logger module and configured to wirelessly communicate the logged data relating to detected use of the one or more disinfectants to a remote monitoring module. 1. A disinfection monitoring system , comprising:a sensor module configured to detect use of one or more disinfectants on a surface or in an area;a data logger module connected to the sensor module and configured to log data relating to detected uses of the one or more disinfectants; anda wireless communication module connected to the data logger module and configured to wirelessly communicate the logged data relating to detected use of the one or more disinfectants to a remote monitoring module.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more disinfectants are selected from a light-based disinfectant claim 1 , a gas disinfectant claim 1 , a vapour disinfectant claim 1 , a liquid disinfectant claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the light-based disinfectant is UV light claim 2 , the vapour disinfectant is hydrogen peroxide vapour claim 2 , and the liquid disinfectant is bleach.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the sensor module comprises one or more sensors selected from a UV light sensor claim 2 , a gas sensor claim 2 , a vapour sensor claim 2 , a chemical sensor claim 2 , a thermal sensor claim 2 , and combinations thereof.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the sensor module further comprises a location sensor.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the location sensor is a global positioning system (GPS) sensor.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the data logger module comprises a data storage device configured to store the logged data ...

Sterilization process design for a medical adhesive

Medical devices, including medical adhesives, need to be sterile before application to a patient. A dry heat sterilization process can sterilize medical adhesives for patient application. The dry heat sterilization process can be validated for particular equipment arrangements and medical adhesives being utilized.

Sanitization Analysis Devices, Systems, and Methods

Systems, devices, methods, and software of the present invention provide for sanitization monitoring of hands, other body parts, and objects. The systems and devices including a detector to provide images of the object within its detection range, and at least one processor to receive the images from the detector, determine areas of the image corresponding to sanitized areas of the object from unsanitized areas of the object, calculate a percentage of sanitized areas to the total area corresponding to the sanitized and unsanitized areas, and report at least the percentage of sanitized area. In various embodiments, users sanitize their hands with fluorescing hand sanitizer and/or a fluorescing germ-proxy agent with soap and water and the sanitized and unsanitized areas are determined based on the amount of fluorescing material remaining on the hands after application. 1. A hand sanitization monitoring system comprising:a chamber;at least one illumination device positioned within the chamber to illuminate a hand detection area within the chamber;a detector positioned within the chamber to detect and provide images of hands within the hand detection area; receive the images from the detector,', 'determine areas of the image corresponding to sanitized areas of the hands from unsanitized areas of the hands,', 'calculate a score using at least a percentage of the sanitized areas to a total area corresponding to the sanitized area plus the unsanitized area, and', 'provide at least the score; and, 'at least one processor and a memory positioned proximate the chamber, the processor to'}a display positioned proximate the chamber to display at least the score provided by the processor.2. The system of claim 1 , wherethe at least one illumination device is at least one UV light; andthe detector is a camera capturing visual images of the hands.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprisingat least one of a hand sanitizer dispenser containing fluorescing hand sanitizer and a ...

Pathogen Surrogates Based on Encapsulated Tagged DNA for Verification of Sanitation and Wash Water Systems for Fresh Produce

A pathogen surrogate, formed by a DNA tag or bar code and a carrier, is described for use in the validation and verification of sanitation, such as in food processing operations and for wash water systems for fresh produce. The carrier material is selected so that the pathogen surrogate mimics the behavior of a pathogen when subjected to a sanitation operation. One or more surrogates can be introduced in to an environment, which is then subjected to sanitation process, followed by a detection process using the DNA tag of the surrogate. 1. A product , comprising:a DNA bar code; anda non-toxic pathogen surrogate carrier with which the DNA bar code is combined to form a pathogen surrogate, wherein the pathogen surrogate is degradable under a sanitation process.2. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate carrier includes one or more of maltodextrin claim 1 , a salt claim 1 , a starch claim 1 , a non-water soluble food grade polymer claim 1 , a protein claim 1 , or a lipid.3. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate carrier is a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) polymer.4. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate carrier is a gelatin based carrier.5. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate includes UV inhibitors.6. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate includes anti-oxidants.7. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate carrier includes one or more of carrageenan claim 1 , carnauba claim 1 , silica claim 1 , water-soluble carbohydrate claim 1 , flour claim 1 , albumin claim 1 , casein.8. The product of claim I claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate carrier is a particle bearing a core of a functionally ferromagnetic material.9. The product of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate includes fixed cells of a formerly living microorganism.10. The product of claim 1 , wherein the DNA bar code is encapsulated in the surrogate carrier.11. The product of claim 1 , wherein the DNA bar ...

DISINFECTION METHOD AND APPARATUS

Photosensitizers are incorporated into articles, such a personal protective equipment. A method of applying continuous and consistent light includes fitting the articles with light sources and optical fibers to apply light to the areas of the articles incorporated with the photosensitizers. Photosensitizers can be applied to articles by various applicators in either a gel or solution. A gel can be particularly effective when used on hydrophobic surfaces. Photodynamic reactor systems can be used to determine the effective doses of photosensitizers and the light dosimetry which can then be applied for use with the articles. 1. An article that is worn on a person , comprising:a material forming a part of the article that covers a body part, the material is configured to provide protection from microbes; andone or more photosensitizers are incorporated over an area of the material, wherein the one or more photosensitizers generate singlet oxygen by absorbing light of a particular waveband to provide protection from microbes in combination with the material.2. The article of claim 1 , is a personal protective equipment article selected from a mask claim 1 , a glove claim 1 , and a gown.3. The article of claim 1 , further comprising one or more light source incorporated into the article claim 1 , wherein the light source emits a waveband of light absorbed by the one or more photosensitizers.4. The article of claim 3 , wherein the one or more light source includes a lens configured to direct the light onto the area of the material incorporated with the one or more photosensitizers.5. The article of claim 3 , further comprising one or more optical fiber that abuts the light source claim 3 , wherein the optical fiber is an edge-emitting optical light fiber claim 3 , and the edge-emitting optical light fiber emits light over the area of the material incorporated with the one or more photosensitizers.6. The article of claim 3 , further comprising a second light source ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MITIGATING AIRBORNE CONTAMINATION IN CONDITIONED INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS

A system and method for mitigating airborne contamination in a conditioned indoor environment utilizes one or more sensing modules configured to detect presence and/or concentration of particles and/or aerosols at different locations. A control module employs an artificial intelligence algorithm to selectively activate at least one mitigation module utilizing machine learning programmed rules and output signals from the sensing module(s). The mitigation module(s) are configured to take one or more actions to reduce presence and/or concentration of particles and/or aerosols in the conditioned indoor environment. 1. A system for mitigating airborne contamination in a conditioned indoor environment , the system comprising:at least one sensing module comprising an aerosol and/or particulate detector configured to detect presence and/or concentration of particles and/or aerosols at a location in the conditioned indoor environment;at least one mitigation module configured to take one or more actions to reduce presence and/or concentration of particles and/or aerosols in the conditioned indoor environment; anda control module employing an artificial intelligence algorithm configured to selectively activate the at least one mitigation module based on utilization of machine learning programmed rules and output signals from the at least one sensing module.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one sampling module configured to automatically collect an air sample from the conditioned indoor environment based on utilization of machine learning programmed rules and output signals from of the at least one sensing module.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the at least one sampling module comprises at least one of a chemical analyzer or a biological analyzer configured to identify one or more constituents of the air sample.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensing module comprises at least one of a temperature sensor claim 1 , a pressure sensor ...

Sterilization Chemical Indicator

The present disclosure relates generally to chemical indicators. In particular, the chemical indicators are useful for monitoring sterilization processes. The chemical indicator includes a fluid pathway and a chamber comprises a chemical-indicating composition. 1. A chemical indicator comprising:a first sheet substantially impermeable to a sterilant;a second sheet substantially impermeable to a sterilant positioned in an overlapping relationship with respect to the first sheet;a third sheet positioned between the first sheet and the second sheet;a fluid pathway; anda chamber;wherein the fluid pathway comprises a bottom portion, a top portion, and two side portions;wherein the chamber comprises a chemical-indicating composition;wherein the bottom portion of the fluid pathway is defined by the first sheet, the top portion of the fluid pathway is defined by the second sheet, and the sides of the fluid pathway are defined by the third sheet, the fluid pathway having a first end that defines a first opening and a second end that defines a second opening;wherein a first end of the fluid pathway is configured to be in fluid communication with ambience and the second end of the fluid pathway is configured to be in fluid communication with the chamber.2. A flat-format sterilization process challenge device comprising:{'claim-text': ['a chamber comprising a chemical-indicating composition;', 'a first sheet;', 'a second sheet positioned in an overlapping relationship with respect to the first sheet;', 'a third sheet positioned between the first sheet and the second sheet, the third sheet including a cutaway region to define a first fluid pathway,'], '#text': 'a container comprising a chemical indicator, wherein the chemical indicator comprises:'}a second fluid pathway between ambiance and the chemical indicator,wherein the first fluid pathway is defined by the first sheet, the second sheet and the third sheet, the fluid pathway including a first opening and a second opening; ...

A Multilayer Test Pack for Sterilization Monitoring

The disclosed multilayer test pack comprises a channel lamina to form a recessed channel, and then a seal layer covers the recessed channel to form an embedded channel By providing the recessed channel in a thin-film channel lamina, the recessed channel tolerances are better controlled. Further, using thin films for the channel lamina, which can be formed into a roll, allows for a continuous unrolling and continuous bonding to a seal layer. 1. A multilayer test pack comprising: a bonding surface;', 'a recessed channel extending from the first bonding surface into the channel surface;, 'a channel lamina comprising a channel surface, a covering surface opposite from the channel surface, wherein the channel surface comprisesa seal layer comprising a seal surface and an outer surface opposite from the seal surface, wherein the seal surface is bonded to the bonding surface;an embedded channel contained between the recessed channel and the seal surface;wherein the embedded channel extends from an inlet port exposed to an external environment and an outlet port exposed to a sealed cavity;wherein the sealed cavity is formed in a layer of multilayer test pack other than the channel lamina.2. The multilayer test pack of claim 1 , wherein channel lamina comprises a single claim 1 , unitary structure wherein the recessed channel extends partially into the channel surface.3. The multilayer test pack of claim 1 , wherein the channel lamina comprises a first continuous layer comprising the channel surface and a second continuous layer comprising the covering surface.4. The multilayer test pack of claim 3 , wherein the recessed channel extends entirely through the first layer.5. The multilayer test pack of claim 1 , wherein the channel lamina is a thin layer with a substantially planar covering surface and substantially planar bonding surface.6. The multilayer test pack of claim 1 , wherein channel lamina further comprises an edge surrounding the channel surface and covering ...

FILTER SYSTEM WITH OUTLET FUNCTION

A gas-permeable filter system for a sterile container includes a filter element and a seal portion that sealingly surrounds a gas exchange opening provided in a sterile container wall section in such a manner that the seal portion rests against the sterile container wall section so that a sterile flow path is formed through the gas exchange opening and the filter element. A temperature-sensitive adjusting section releases at least the seal portion from the sterile container wall section when a specified temperature is reached or exceeded such that a non-sterile flow path is formed which allows fluid to be supplied or discharged via the gas exchange opening while bypassing the filter element. The sterile container includes a base and walls that define a receiving space. The sterile container also includes a cover for closing the receiving space. At least one filter system is preferably secured to the sterile container base. 1. A gas-permeable filter system for a sterile container , the filter system comprising:a filter element;a seal portion which is adapted to sealingly surround a gas exchange opening provided in a sterile container wall section in such a manner that the seal portion rests against the sterile container wall section of the sterile container so that a sterile flow path is formed through the gas exchange opening and the filter element; andat least one temperature-sensitive adjusting section which releases at least the seal portion from the sterile container wall section when a specified temperature is reached or exceeded such that a non-sterile flow path is formed which allows fluid to be supplied or discharged via the gas exchange opening while bypassing the filter element.2. The filter system according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature-sensitive adjusting section is at least one adjusting element formed separately from the filter element.3. The filter system according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature-sensitive adjusting section is formed in ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING MOISTURE IN A VACUUM CHAMBER

A method of sterilizing medical instruments using a vacuum chamber connected to reservoir by a valve in a closed state is disclosed that includes placing instruments in a non-sterile state into a sterilization pack, opening a chamber, placing the pack into the chamber, closing the chamber, withdrawing a first volume of air from the chamber, changing a volume of liquid water into vapor, opening the valve, introducing sterilant into the chamber, introducing a second volume of air into the chamber, opening the chamber, removing the pack from the chamber, and removing the instruments in a sterile-state from the pack. The process may further include the steps of repeatedly determining pressure within the chamber, calculating second-derivative values of pressure with respect to time, and determining whether any local maxima exist in a plot of second derivative values that correspond to pressures above and/or below the triple-point pressure of water. 1. A method of operating a sterilization system having a chamber for sterilizing instruments , comprising:repeatedly determining pressure within the chamber while withdrawing a first volume of air from the chamber;calculating second-derivative values of pressure with respect to time;calculating a summation of positive differences between consecutive second derivative values;comparing the summation to a threshold value;determining that the summation is greater than the threshold value; andin response to determining that the summation is greater than the threshold value, increasing the pressure in the chamber.2. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating the summation of positive differences is performed for consecutive second derivative values corresponding to a pressure range.3. The method of claim 2 , in which the pressure range comprises between about 4.6 torr and about 0.3 torr.4. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of increasing the pressure in the chamber includes introducing a second volume of air ...

PROTECTION AND SELECTIVE RELEASE OF COLORANT

Selectively-releasable colorant compositions that allow a controllable release of colorant molecules from resin in response to one or more specific environmental stimuli. The selectively-releasable colorant composition may comprise resin particles having colorant molecules reversibly bound thereto. The compositions of the present disclosure may also provide precise and uniform control of free colorant content in an environment and/or protection of the immobilized (i.e., unreleased) colorant from compromising environmental chemistries. The present disclosure also relates to methods of preparing and methods of using the compositions described herein. 1. A selectively-releasable colorant composition comprising one or more resin particles having colorant molecules reversibly bound thereto via an association , wherein at least a portion of the colorant molecules dissociates with the one or more resin particles in response to one or more environmental stimuli.2. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 1 , wherein the one or more resin particles comprises one or more ion-exchange polymers.3. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 2 , wherein the one or more ion-exchange polymers has been functionalized by one or more pretreatment agents.4. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 1 , wherein the colorant is suitable for use with an antiseptic solution containing one or more antiseptic agents.5. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 4 , wherein the one or more antiseptic agents is selected from the group consisting of chlorhexidine gluconate claim 4 , chlorhexidine acetate claim 4 , chlorhexidine claim 4 , chlorhexidine dihydrochloride claim 4 , octenidine dihydrochloride claim 4 , and combinations thereof.6. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 1 , wherein the colorant is a dye.7. The selectively-releasable colorant composition of claim 1 , wherein the colorant is selected from the ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS TO EVALUATE INTERNAL FLEXIBLE ENDOSCOPE CHANNELS IN THE CONTEXT OF ENDOSCOPE PORTS AND CHANNEL COMPLEXITIES

A test instrument and a method for producing a test instrument used to evaluate a cleaning, disinfection and/or drying processes of internal flexible channels includes obtaining a medical instrument having a flexible probe section configured for insertion into a body, the flexible probe section including at least one internal flexible channel and at least one external device port, and attaching an access device between the at least one external device port and the at least one internal flexible channel to enable selective access into the internal flexible channel. 1. A method for producing a test instrument used to evaluate decontamination process that includes at least one of a cleaning , disinfection or drying process of internal flexible channels , comprising:obtaining a medical instrument having a flexible probe section configured for insertion into a body, the flexible probe section including at least one internal flexible channel and at least one external device port; andattaching an access device between the at least one external device port and the at least one internal flexible channel to enable selective access into the internal flexible channel.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein attaching the access device comprises removing an exterior sheath from the flexible probe section to expose the at least one external device port and the at least one internal flexible channel of the medical instrument.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein attaching the access device comprises replacing the flexible probe section with transparent tubing claim 1 , the transparent tubing defining the at least one flexible internal channel.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein attaching the access device comprises using at least one of a tubing connector or a threaded connector as the access device.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein obtaining the medical instrument comprises obtaining a medical instrument that has at least one of exceeded a ...

STERILE STATUS INDICATOR BY MEANS OF PHASE CHANGE

A phase change material is used for the production of a sterile state indication means for a sterilization container. A sterile state indication means for a sterilization container includes a fluid-tight case containing a phase change material. In this assembly, the case wall of the case includes at least one transparent zone and an activator which can be actuated in order to release an activation energy and/or crystallization seeds. The activator is in contact with the phase change material. Further, a sterilization container includes a container trough and a container lid, including a sterile state indication means. The sterile state indication means is provided either on the container trough or on the container lid, and the activator, in the closed state of the sterilization container, is in direct or indirect connection with the respectively other element among container trough and container lid. 111.-. (canceled)12. A method for producing a sterilization container comprising the steps of:providing a container; andproviding a sterile state indication means, the sterile state indication means comprising a phase change material.13. The method according to claim 12 , wherein the phase change material has a melting temperature in a temperature range from 25° C. to 100° C.14. A sterile state indication means for a sterilization container comprising:a fluid-tight case containing a phase change material, wherein the case wall of the case comprises at least one transparent zone, andan activator which can be actuated in order to release an activation energy and/or crystallization seeds, the activator being in contact with the phase change material.15. The sterile state indication means according to claim 14 , whereina labeling and/or color marking is provided on and/or in the fluid-tight case in such a manner that it faces the transparent zone of the case wall at least in parts.16. The sterile state indication means according to claim 15 , whereinthe labeling and/or ...

INK COMPOSITION FOR DETECTING HYDROGEN PEROXIDE AND INDICATOR FOR DETECTION OF HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

A primary object of the present invention is to provide a hydrogen peroxide gas detection indicator which allows more certain visual recognition of color changing according to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide gas. The structure of this invention relates to an ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas containing (1) at least one of styrene acrylic resins and styrene-maleic acid resins and (2) a methine dye. According to this invention, a color-changing layer is formed using the ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas, allowing color changing according to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide gas to be visually recognized. 1. An ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas comprising 1) at least one of styrene acrylic resins and styrene-maleic acid resins , 2) a methine dye , and 3) a cationic surfactant , wherein1) the content of said at least one of styrene acrylic resins and styrene-maleic acid resins is 1 to 50% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition,2) the content of the methine dye is 0.05 to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, and3) the cationic surfactant is at least one member selected from the group consisting of behenyltrimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, lauryltrimethylammonium chloride, and octadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, andwherein the content of the cationic surfactant is 0.1 to 15% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.2. The ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas according to claim 1 , further comprising an extender.3. The ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas according to claim 2 , wherein a part or all of the extender is composed of silica.4. The ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas according to claim 1 , further comprising a second resin binder that excludes styrene acrylic resin and styrene-maleic acid resin.5. The ink composition for detecting hydrogen peroxide gas ...

Biological indicator for determining the efficacy of a steam or heat sterilization process and its method of use

The invention relates to a biological indicator for determining the efficacy of a steam or heat sterilization process, and its method. The biological indicator comprises microbial spores (a), at least one sensor protein exogenous to the microbial spores (b), one fluorophore (c), and a culture medium (d). The invention also refers to the method of use of this biological indicator. This method consists of (a) placing the biological indicator along with a target material to be steam or heat sterilized within a steam or heat sterilizer, (b) carrying out a steam or heat sterilization process, (c) placing the biological indicator in a an incubator, (d) screening the biological indicator for immediate detectable changes in fluorescence intensity, while incubating the biological indicator in the incubator, (e) determining the efficacy of the steam or heat sterilization process based on the screening carried out during step d), (f) extending the incubation of the biological indicator obtained in step d), (g) screening the incubated biological indicators obtained in step e) for an optically detectable color change, and (h) determining the efficacy of the steam or heat sterilization process, according to optically detectable changes obtained in step g).

DISINFECTION DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND MATERIALS

A handheld disinfection device includes a housing, an electromagnetic radiation source, a sensor, and a controller. The housing is configured to be grasped by an operator and the electromagnetic radiation source is affixed to the housing and is configured to operably emit disinfecting electromagnetic radiation. The sensor and the controller are coupled to the housing, and the controller includes a processor and a memory having instructions stored thereon that cause the processor to perform various operations. The various operations may include receiving, by the processor, operational data from the sensor pertaining to an operator's manipulation of the handheld disinfection device during a disinfecting treatment. The controller operations may further include determining, by the processor, operational feedback based on the operational data, wherein the operational feedback comprises information pertaining to whether a proper dosage of disinfecting electromagnetic radiation has been directed to a surface of a structure to be disinfected. 1. A handheld disinfection device , comprising:a housing;an electromagnetic radiation source affixed to the housing and configured to operably emit disinfecting electromagnetic radiation;a sensor coupled to the housing; and "receiving, by the processor, operational data from the sensor pertaining to an operator's manipulation of the handheld disinfection device during a disinfecting treatment.", 'a controller coupled to the housing, the controller comprising a processor and a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations comprising2. The handheld disinfection device of claim 1 , wherein the operations further comprise determining claim 1 , by the processor claim 1 , operational feedback based on the operational data claim 1 , wherein the operational feedback comprises information pertaining to ...

COMPOSITON SENSITIVE TO UV-C RADIATION AND UV-C STERILIZATION OR DISINFECTION DOSIMETER

A reactive ink composition comprising a UV-C radiation sensitive polymer, an acid scavenger, a photoinitiator, and a pH-sensitive dye. A method to print a composition onto a UV-C radiation dosimeter using a “layer-by-layer” deposition technique, as well as a dosimeter comprising the reactive ink composition, useful in monitoring the efficiency of a UV-C radiation sterilization or disinfection process.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LOADING A FLOOR LOADING STERILIZER

A method and apparatus for sterilizing is provided, wherein an item to be sterilized is loaded into a sterilizing cabinet integrated with a sterilizable wheeled case cart, the sterilizing cabinet comprising an interior, the interior being sterilizable; the sterilizable wheeled cart and the affixed sterilizing cabinet is rolled into the floor loading sterilizer; the sterilizable wheeled case cart and the integrated sterilizing cabinet in the floor loading sterilizer is exposed to a sterilizing cycle; and the integrated sterilizable wheeled case cart and sterilizing cabinet are rolled from the floor loading sterilizer, without requiring vertical translation of the sterilizing cabinet relative to the ground or the case cart. 1. A method of sterilizing , the method comprising:(a) loading an item to be sterilized into an integrated sterilizing cabinet and sterilizable wheeled case cart, the sterilizing cabinet comprising an interior, the interior being sterilizable;(b) rolling the integrated sterilizable wheeled case cart and sterilizing cabinet into the floor loading sterilizer;(c) exposing the integrated sterilizable wheeled case cart and sterilizing cabinet in the floor loading sterilizer to a sterilizing cycle; and(d) rolling the integrated sterilizable wheeled case cart and sterilizing cabinet from the floor loading sterilizer.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising claim 1 , prior to rolling the integrated sterilizable wheeled case cart and sterilizing cabinet into the floor loading sterilizer claim 1 , disposing at least one separated wrapped item to be sterilized onto the sterilizable wheeled case cart.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sterilizable wheeled case cart comprises at least one door claim 1 , the at least one door connected to the sterilizable wheeled cart claim 1 , the at least one door moveable between an open position permitting passage through an access port to an interior of the sterilizable wheeled cart and a closed position precluding ...

Ethylene Oxide Treatment Indicator, Label and Method of Use

The present invention provides an indicator useful in confirming successful sterilisation and/or nucleic acid decontamination by ethylene oxide (EtO) treatment. The invention also provides a label comprising said indicator and methods for use of the indicator and label in a method of EtO treatment. 1. An indicator for confirming successful ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure wherein said indicator comprises a solid support treated with a dye selected from the group comprising:(a) Bromophenol red(b) Bromothylmol blue(c) Bromoxylenol blue(d) Chlorophenyl red(e) m-Cresol purple(f) Cresol red(g) Neutral red(h) Nile blue(i) Rosolic acid(j) Fast violet B(k) Mordant blue 9(l) Oil red O(m) Phthanlcyanine Cu(n) Phthanlcyanine green(o) Phthanlcyanine Fe(p) Phthanlcyanine Mg(q) Phthanlcyanine Zn(r) Prussian blue; and(s) Ruthenium red.2. The indicator as defined in claim 1 , wherein said solid support is selected from the group comprising cellulose based paper claim 1 , woven or non-woven fibrous materials claim 1 , including man made claim 1 , or naturally occurring polymer fibres such as an alginate claim 1 , mineral fibre based materials such as glass fibre materials.3. The indicator as defined in either claim 1 , wherein said solid support is a cellulose based paper.48.-. (canceled)9. The indicator as defined in claim 1 , wherein said solid support comprises more than one of said dyes.10. The indicator as defined in claim 1 , wherein said solid support further comprises one or more nucleic acid stabilisation chemicals.1113.-. (canceled)14. The indicator as defined in claim 10 , wherein said nucleic acid stabilisation chemicals are selected from the group comprising a weak base claim 10 , a chelating agent claim 10 , an anionic surfactant claim 10 , an anti-oxidant claim 10 , preferably Tris HCl claim 10 , EDTA claim 10 , SDS and uric acid claim 10 , respectively.1518.-. (canceled)19. The indicator as defined in claim 14 , wherein said one or more nucleic acid stabilisation ...

Hygiene Compliance Method, Use and System

The present specification discloses methods of monitoring hygiene compliance, hygiene monitoring systems and methods and uses of such systems. 1. A method of monitoring hygiene compliance comprising:applying a washing agent and a coloring agent to a surface area of an object; anddetecting the presence or absence of color on the surface area washed with the washing agent.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the washing agent is a personal washing agent claim 1 , a residential washing agent claim 1 , a commercial washing agent claim 1 , or an industrial washing agent.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the washing agent is a detergent claim 1 , a soap claim 1 , a cleaner claim 1 , a bleach claim 1 , a disinfectant claim 1 , or a sterilizing agent.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the washing agent is a surfactant-based composition claim 1 , an alcohol-based composition claim 1 , an antimicrobial composition claim 1 , an antiseptic composition claim 1 , or any combination thereof.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the coloring agent is a light-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , an ultraviolent light (UV)-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , an infrared (IR)-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , a pH-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , a redox-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , a chelating-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , an enzyme-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , a carbon dioxide-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , a thermo-sensitive coloring agent claim 1 , or any combination thereof.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the coloring agent is an acridine dye claim 1 , an anthraquinone dye claim 1 , an arylmethane dye claim 1 , an azin dye claim 1 , an azo dye claim 1 , a diarylmethane dye claim 1 , a diazonium dye claim 1 , an eurhodin dye claim 1 , a fluorene dye claim 1 , an indigoid dye claim 1 , an indamin dye claim 1 , an indophenol dye claim 1 , an Iodine-based dye claim 1 , a lutein ester dye (mixture of carotenoid ...

DISINFECTION BEHAVIOR TRACKING AND RANKING

A low dose disinfection and control system that utilizes empirical and theoretical data to compare performance, sensor data, stored patterns, historical usage, use intensity indexes over time and tracking information to provide a sophisticated data collection system for disinfection. The data can be used to dynamically control UV treatment parameters. This tracking is designed to enable a learning and feedback tool that helps to modify behavior and the understanding of infection. The present invention provides a system for integrating UV treatment into products. The product may include an outer layer of UV transmissive material forming an external touch surface. The UV disinfection system includes a UV source internal to the product. In use, the internal UV source produces UV-C light that passes into and permeates the outer layer to treat the touch surface. A UV reflective layer may be disposed beneath the outer layer. 1. A method of operating a UV disinfection system to disinfect a touch surface , comprising the steps of:providing a UV disinfection system with a UV source driver configured to drive operation of a UV source at plurality of different UV output intensities;operating a UV source for a first cycle at a first source intensity for a first duration;interrupting operation of the UV source during the cycle in response to a touch sensed on the touch surface;tracking at least one of the frequency of interruptions, the number of interruptions and the number of touches; andin response to at least one of the frequency of interruptions, the number of interruptions and the number of touches, operating a UV source for a second cycle at a second source intensity greater than the first source intensity.2. The method of wherein the first UV output intensity is an effective irradiance of no greater than 0.008 watts per meter squared.3. The method of wherein the second UV output intensity is an effective irradiance of at least 0.016 watts per meter squared.4. The method ...

HYGIENE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYGIENE SYSTEM

The present invention relates to a hygiene system comprising 1. Hygiene system comprising{'b': ['1', '2', '1', '2', '2'], '#text': 'at least one sanitary fitting (), wherein the sanitary fitting has at least one fluid outlet (., .) for dispensing at least one fluid,'}{'b': ['3', '6'], '#text': 'at least one camera () for recording the hands () of a user,'}{'b': '4', '#text': 'at least one optical display () and'}{'b': ['5', '5', '3', '4'], '#text': 'a control (), wherein the control () is connected to the camera () and the optical display (),'}characterised in that{'b': ['5', '6', '6', '6'], 'i': ['a,', 'b'], '#text': 'the control () is set up to determine the hand areas () of the hands () of a user which have been cleaned, and'}{'b': ['5', '4', '6', '4', '6'], 'i': ['a', 'a'], '#text': 'the control () and the optical display () are set up to show at least one area of the hand () on the optical display () if it is determined that the respective area () of the hand has not, or not adequately been cleaned.'}25466a,b. Hygiene system according to claim 1 , wherein the control () is set up to show a perfect cleaning result on the optical display () if all areas () of the hand have been adequately cleaned.31. Hygiene system according to claim 1 , wherein the sanitary fitting () comprises an identification device for identifying the user.4. Hygiene system according to claim 3 , wherein the identification device comprises one of the following elements:fingerprint sensor or sensor for recognising a user by a physical feature,unit for detecting a prefabricated identification, such as a barcode, RFID chip or smartphone,wherein, in particular, personalised feedback to the user takes place.512221225. Hygiene system according to claim 1 , wherein the sanitary fitting () comprises at least one further claim 1 , second outlet (.) for dispensing a second fluid claim 1 , and the dispensing of the first fluid from the first outlet (.) and the dispensing of the second fluid from the ...

Apparatus and Methods for Hygiene Testing a Medical Device

Provided among other things is a sampling system for determining an amount or type of contamination a narrow, elongated passageway in a medical device, said sampling system comprising: (a) a fluid supply system that supplies to said passageway a sampling liquid for flowing through said passageway and a gas for flowing through said passageway; and (b) a receiving container that receives liquid from said passageway, wherein said sampling liquid is sterile, wherein said sampling liquid is configured to allow recovery of viable pathogens from the passageway, and wherein said sampling liquid comprises an amount and selection of surfactant effective to enhance the dislodgement of and bacteria from the narrow passageways. 112-. (canceled)13. A method for determining an extent or nature of contamination of an endoscope having two or more narrow elongated channels , said method comprising:supplying a sampling liquid for flowing through the channels of said endoscope, wherein said sampling liquid comprises a sterile aqueous composition that is essentially free of surfactant;supplying clean compressed air for flowing through said channels or said interiors of said endoscope, wherein said sampling liquid flows through said channels as part of a two-phase flow;collecting fluid exiting said channels in one or more receiving containers; andanalyzing contaminant contents of said receiving containers.14. The method of claim 13 , further comprising:separating gas from liquid and collecting said liquid as recovered liquid in respective sub-containers that are designated for particular said channels or groups of said channels of said endoscope; andperforming testing to determine the amount or type of microorganisms or organic contaminants in said recovered liquid for particular said channels or groups of channels.15. The method of claim 13 , further comprising claim 13 , and prior to said analyzing claim 13 , concentrating said collected fluid to a smaller liquid volume by removing ...

DISINFECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD

A disinfection monitoring system and method for performing monitoring of a disinfection system is provided. The disinfection monitoring system may include one or more image capture devices configured to capture a set of images or videos of an object to be disinfected, such as a user's hands, fingers, and body during an disinfection procedure. An AI module performs detection and detection-based tracking from the captured image or video to determine a quality of the disinfection procedure. The detection and detection-based tracking is performed using keypoint or key area based detection of the user's hands, fingers, and body during the disinfection procedure. A disinfection data collection system generates a ground-truth score from the set of images or videos that indicate a quality of the overall disinfection procedure and/or a quality of each step in the overall disinfection procedure. The ground-truth score is used to train the disinfection monitoring system. 1. A method for performing monitoring of a disinfection system , the method comprising:receiving, at a controller, a captured image or video of a disinfection procedure from at least one image capture device; andperforming detection and detection-based tracking of a user's fingers and/or one or both hands from the captured image or video to determine a quality of the disinfection procedure.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detection and detection-based tracking of the user's fingers and/or one or both hands is performed using keypoint or key area based detection.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the keypoint or key area based detection is used by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) module associated with the controller to determine a poses of the user's body claim 2 , and/or fingers and/or one or both hands in each frame of the captured image or video while performing the disinfection procedure.4. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:performing human keypoint or key area detection on a part of the user ...

System and Method for Verifying Cleaning

A method and kit are provided for training a cleaning protocol and verifying the efficacy of cleaning performed on a surface. The method may include applying a marking agent to a surface to be cleaned. The surface may be tested for the presence of the marking agent after an expected cleaning of the surface. The presence of the marking agent on the surface after the expected cleaning of the surface may be indicative of a lack of cleaning of the surface or an ineffective cleaning of the surface. 1. A method comprising:applying a marking agent to a surface to be cleaned;testing the surface for the presence of the marking agent on the surface after an expected cleaning of the surface.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein applying the marking agent to the surface includes one or more of spraying the marking agent on to the surface claim 1 , wiping the surface with an applicator including the marking agent claim 1 , and dusting the surface with the marking agent.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein wiping the surface with an applicator includes one or more of dispensing the marking agent onto the applicator and wiping the surface with the applicator and wiping the surface with a pretreated applicator including the marking agent.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the marking agent is not readily visually perceptible after application to the surface.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the marking agent includes an acid.6. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the marking agent includes a mixture of the acid and a carrier fluid.7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein testing includes testing after an anticipated cleaning of the surface.8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein testing the surface for the presence of the marking agent includes contacting the surface with an indicator agent.9. The method according to claim 8 , wherein contacting the surface with an indicator agent includes one or more of spraying the surface with ...

Sanitation Monitoring System Using Pathogen Surrogates and Surrogate Tracking

A sanitation management system maintains records of exemplary locations on an item to be sanitized and indicates those locations to a person or system charged with applying a pathogen surrogate prior to a sanitation process. The sanitation management system maintains records of where the pathogen surrogate was applied prior to the sanitation process. Following the sanitation process, the sanitation management system indicates to an inspector, or an inspection system, locations of where the pathogen surrogate was applied for the purpose of facilitating testing of the sanitation process by checking for the presence of the pathogen surrogate at some or all of those locations. This can ensure that the inspection process is relevant to the sanitation process and less likely to generate false negatives where the inspection finds a lack of the pathogen surrogate not due to cleaning, but due to lack of application of the pathogen surrogate. 1. A sanitation management system comprising:a computer capable of maintaining records of exemplary locations on an item to be sanitized and records of where a pathogen surrogate was applied prior to a sanitation process;an augmented reality display that can display marks corresponding to the exemplary locations;an interface to gather information about how the pathogen surrogate was applied to the exemplary locations; andan inspection interface to provide, via the augmented reality display, sampling locations at which to check for presence of the pathogen surrogate at some or all of the exemplary locations.2. The sanitation management system of claim 1 , wherein the pathogen surrogate comprises non-coding DNA sequences that form tags or tag sequences.3. The sanitation management system of claim 2 , wherein the pathogen surrogate comprises the tags or tag sequences and a carrier.4. The sanitation management system of claim 3 , wherein the carrier comprises one or more of water claim 3 , alcohol claim 3 , wax claim 3 , oil claim 3 , ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISINFECTING SPACES AND SURFACES

A system for the disinfection of rooms and surfaces including at least one plate which can be associated with a room to be treated and equipped with a memory containing a plurality of identification data of the room and at least one diffuser device including a tank containing a liquid solution and nebulising means associated with the tank and designed to draw out the liquid solution from the tank spraying it in the space. The diffuser device includes a control unit associated with the nebulising means and which can be associated with the plate, designed for receiving from the plate a signal representing identification data of the room and designed for controlling the nebulising means as a function of the signal in such a way as to sanitise the room in an automatic manner. 1. A diffuser device for a system for the disinfection of spaces and surfaces , equipped with a plate containing a plurality of identification data of a room to be treated , the device comprising:a tank containing a liquid solution,nebulising means associated with the tank and designed for drawing out the liquid solution from the tank spraying it in the space, characterised in that it comprises a control unit associated with the nebulising means and which can be associated with the plate, designed for receiving from the plate a signal representing identification data of the room and designed for controlling the nebulising means as a function of the signal in such a way as to sanitise the room in an automatic manner.2. The diffuser device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is programmed for communicating with the plate periodically or continuously during the nebulising so as to guarantee that the diffuser device is not moved to another room whilst the sanitising process is in progress.3. The diffuser device according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit is designed to command the stopping of the nebulising means following a communication failure with the plate so as to guarantee that ...

DISINFECTION SYSTEM

A disinfection system is disclosed. The disinfection system comprises a light source, a first sensor, and a controller. The light source is configured to emit germicidal light in a vehicle interior. The first sensor is operable to detect the presence of at least one of bacteria, viruses, dirt, and grime. The controller is configured to selectively at least one of activate, project, and steer light emissions from the light source based at least in part on sensor data. Optionally, vehicle interior disinfection system may further comprise a second sensor. The second sensor may be operable to capture occupant data. Further, the controller may be further operable to determine if the vehicle interior is occupied. 1. A disinfection system comprising:a light source configured to emit germicidal light in a space; detect the presence of at least one of bacteria, viruses, dirt, and grime; and', 'generate sensor data based on the detection; and, 'a first sensor operable toa controller configured to selectively at least one of activate, project, and steer light emissions from the light source based at least in part on sensor data.2. The disinfection system of further comprising a florescent dye applicator operable to apply a florescent dye to the space.3. The disinfection system of wherein the light source is further configured to emit an excitation emission.4. The disinfection system of wherein the light source is configured to emit UV light.5. The disinfection system of wherein the space is a vehicle interior.6. The disinfection system of wherein the light source is operable to emit onto a control region of the vehicle interior.7. The disinfection system of wherein the control region comprises at least one of a steering wheel claim 6 , a turn signal stalk claim 6 , a dash panel claim 6 , at least one seat claim 6 , and a seatbelt.8. The disinfection system of further comprising:a second sensor, the second sensor configured to capture occupant data; andwherein the controller is ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE CLEANLINESS OF A SURFACE

Systems and methods for determining the cleanliness of a surface. Surface marking systems of the present disclosure can include a plurality of retroreflective microspheres dispersed in or dispensed on a carrier. Applicators of the present disclosure can include a container comprising the surface marking system, and a dispenser. Methods of the present disclosure can include applying the surface marking system to at least one discrete site on the surface; illuminating the at least one discrete site on the surface with visible light, after a cleaning; and detecting retroreflection emitted from the at least one discrete site on the surface in response to illuminating the at least one discrete site to determine the effectiveness of the cleaning of the surface. 126.-. (canceled)27. An applicator for applying a surface marking system , the applicator comprising:a container defining a reservoir;a surface marking system positioned in the reservoir, the surface marking system comprising a plurality of retroreflective microspheres dispersed in or dispensed on a carrier; anda dispenser configured to dispense the surface marking system.28. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the dispenser includes a porous substrate.29. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the dispenser includes at least one of a sponge claim 27 , a foam claim 27 , a swab claim 27 , a brush claim 27 , a dabber claim 27 , or a combination thereof.30. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the dispenser includes a nozzle.31. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the carrier includes an adhesive claim 27 , and wherein the container includes a tape dispenser.32. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the carrier includes a solvent that is at least as volatile as water at room temperature.33. The applicator of claim 27 , wherein the carrier includes an alcohol.34. The applicator of claim 28 , wherein the dispenser includes at least one of a sponge claim 28 , a foam claim 28 , a swab claim 28 , a brush claim 28 , a dabber ...

APARATUS AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING BIOLOGICAL INDICATORS

A biological indicator analyzer includes a plurality of wells, a plurality of organism detector features, and a user input feature such as a touch screen. Each well is configured to receive a respective biological indicator. Each organism detector feature is configured to detect whether a biological indicator disposed in a corresponding well of the plurality of wells contains a living organism. The touch screen is configured to receive user input and provide information to the user indicating a status of biological indicator analysis. The biological indicator analyzer may be used to analyze a biological indicator that was positioned in a sterilization chamber of a sterilizing cabinet along with at least one medical device that is to be sterilized. The analysis may indicate whether the sterilization cycle in the sterilization chamber as successful. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for analyzing a biological indicator with an indicator analyzer , the method comprising:(a) receiving a biological indicator in a well selected from a plurality of wells in the indicator analyzer, wherein the biological indicator comprises a carrier that provides a source of contamination; (i) providing information associated with the control test via a touchscreen display of the indicator analyzer, and', '(ii) receiving user input associated with the control test via the touchscreen display;, '(b) enforcing the performance of a control test for the biological indicator by(c) using an organism detector device of the indicator analyzer, analyzing the biological indicator in the well to detect contamination and produce a set of analysis data; and(d) displaying results of the analysis via the display based on the set of analysis data.22. The method of claim 21 , further comprising claim 21 , before analyzing the biological indicator:(a) displaying an instruction via the display for a user to verify that the biological indicator has undergone a sterilization cycle; and(b) displaying an instruction ...

Method and apparatus for optical detection of bio-contaminants within a lumen

A method for optical detection of residual soil in lumens of lumened or cannulated devices such as surgical endoscopes, after undergoing a decontamination process (e.g., a washing or rinsing operation). A soil detection system provides an indication of the presence of residual soil within a lumen by detecting luminescent radiation emanating from the soil on the interior of the lumen in response to excitation light.

PROCESS CHALLENGE DEVICE FOR AUTOMATED ENDOSCOPE REPROCESSOR

The present disclosure describes a novel monitoring system which enables a user to verify the effectiveness of the disinfection cycle provided by an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER). The disclosure proposes the use of chemical and/or biological indicators integrated within a process challenge device that mimics the challenge posed by an endoscope processed in the AER. 1. A process challenge device for a liquid disinfecting step comprising:(a) a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, said inlet and outlet connected by a channel, wherein said channel is designed in a tortuous path to mimic the geometry of an endoscope,(b) at least one indicator positioned within the channel.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the channel has a primary path and one or more secondary paths.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the at least one indicator is positioned along a secondary path.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device contains at least one chemical indicator and at least one biological indicator.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device is generally planar.6. A method for determining the quality of disinfection in an AER claim 1 , the method comprising: i. a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, said inlet and outlet connected by a channel, wherein said channel is designed in a tortuous path to mimic the geometry of an endoscope,', 'ii. at least one indicator positioned within the channel, and, 'a. providing within the AER a challenge device comprisingb. analyzing the indicator to confirm whether desired process conditions have been met.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the channel has a primary path and one or more secondary paths.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the at least one indicator is positioned along a secondary path.9. The method of claim 6 , wherein the device contains at least one chemical indicator and at least one biological indicator.10. The method of claim 6 , wherein the device is generally planar. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional ...

BIOLOGICAL INDICATOR WITH VARIABLE RESISTANCE

A biological indicator with variable resistance may be controlled by moving a cap or housing of the biological indicator to cause the size of vents that allow flow of sterilant through the housing to decrease or increase in effective size. An indicator window may show a user the current resistance of the biological indicator, and may also show a readable indicator that may be captured by a scanner to allow a sterilizing cabinet to identify the current resistance. When the level of resistance shown by the readable indicator is not compatible with a sterilization cycle selected by a user, the procedure may be delayed and a notification provided to the user that a problem exists. The readable indicator may be a passive tag with a memory that allows information to be read and written, so that the biological indicator may carry data from one device to another. 1. A system , comprising:(a) a sterilizing cabinet comprising a sterilizing chamber and a user interface;(b) a biological indicator analyzer comprising at least one biological indicator receiver; and (i) a set of readable indicators, the set of readable indicators comprising a first readable indicator and a second readable indicator,', '(ii) an indicator window, and', '(iii) an adjustable portion operable to selectively move between selected vent positions from a set of vent positions, the set of vent positions comprising a first vent position and a second vent position, wherein each readable indicator of the set of readable indicators is associated with a corresponding vent position of the set of vent positions,', 'wherein the adjustable portion is configured to position first readable indicator in the indicator window when the adjustable portion is in the first vent position;, '(c) a variable resistance biological indicator comprisingwherein the biological indicator analyzer is configured to detect one or more microorganisms in the biological indicator;wherein the sterilizing cabinet is configured to execute ...

UV LIGHT MONITORING SYSTEM FOR A UV DECONTAMINATION APPARATUS

The invention provides a UV light monitoring system that is capable of estimating the UV irradiance on a target surface oriented at an arbitrary angle relative to a UV emitter that emits UV light. The UV light monitoring system can be used in a system or process for disinfecting a space, where the UV light monitoring system may enable a dose of UV light experienced by a surface in the space to be accurately estimated. The invention can alternatively or additionally provide a mechanism for determining the orientation of a UV light monitor to assist with the optimal placement of the UV light monitor within a space. The orientation is determined based on a comparison between signals received from first and second solar cells that are located on different faces of the UV light monitor. 1. A UV light monitoring system comprising a processor and a UV light monitor including a UV sensor , wherein the UV light monitoring system is configured to calculate a UV irradiance on a target surface that is remote from the UV light monitor based on: UV light intensity measurements made by the UV light monitor , a first angle between the UV sensor and UV light that is generated by a UV emitter and is incident on the UV sensor; a second angle between the target surface and UV light generated by the UV emitter that is incident on the target surface; a distance between the UV emitter and the UV sensor; and a distance between the UV emitter and the target surface.2. The UV light monitor of claim 1 , wherein the first and second angles are different.3. The UV light monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein the UV light sensor is configured to detect UV light incident on the sensor across a range of angles and to output a UV intensity as a function of incidence angle.4. The UV light monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein the UV light monitor further includes a distance measuring component that is configured to measure a distance from the UV light monitor to the UV emitter.5. The UV light ...

DISINFECTION BEHAVIOR TRACKING AND RANKING

A low dose disinfection and control system that utilizes empirical and theoretical data to compare performance, sensor data, stored patterns, historical usage, use intensity indexes over time and tracking information to provide a sophisticated data collection system for disinfection. The data can be used to dynamically control UV treatment parameters. This tracking is designed to enable a learning and feedback tool that helps to modify behavior and the understanding of infection. The present invention provides a system for integrating UV treatment into products. The product may include an outer layer of UV transmissive material forming an external touch surface. The UV disinfection system includes a UV source internal to the product. In use, the internal UV source produces UV-C light that passes into and permeates the outer layer to treat the touch surface. A UV reflective layer may be disposed beneath the outer layer. 1. A device with an integrated UV disinfection system comprising:an enclosure having an external touch surface, at least a portion of the external touch surface being UV transmissive;a substrate disposed beneath at least a portion of the UV transmissive portion of the enclosure, the substrate being UV reflective;a UV disinfection control circuit disposed within the enclosure; anda UV source disposed within the enclosure, whereby UV energy produced by the UV source passes into the UV transmissive portion and wherein the UV reflective substrate reflect UV energy back into the UV transmissive portion.2. The device of wherein the UV source is disposed adjacent to the UV transmissive portion of the enclosure.3. The device of including light pipe configured to route UV energy produced by the UV source to the UV transmissive portion.4. The device of wherein the UV transmissive portion includes an internal surface in directed contact with the substrate claim 1 , the internal surface being non-textured.5. The device of wherein the UV transmissive portion has a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEACTIVATION OF VIRUSES AND OTHER ORGANISMS WITH MOBILE ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT DEVICES

Provided are mobile imaging devices and methods thereof. A mobile imaging device includes a plurality of light source sets, sensors, and a controller. At least one program is non-transiently stored in and executable by the controller. The program causes the controller to perform a method including acquiring a corresponding value for each condition in a first plurality of conditions when the device is at a first position using the sensors to collect a plurality of measurements associated with a region of interest that is not exposed to the plurality of light source sets. The method includes firing with the device held at the first position, if the corresponding value satisfies a corresponding condition specification for a respective condition in the first plurality of conditions, the plurality of light source sets based on a second plurality of conditions. Accordingly, light emits that is substantially limited to a spectral range. 1. A method comprising:at a mobile imaging device comprising a plurality of light source sets, one or more sensors, a controller, and a memory, wherein at least one program is non-transiently stored in the memory and executable by the controller, the at least one program causing the controller to implement processing that includes:(A) acquiring, when the mobile imaging device is at a first position, a corresponding value for each boundary condition in a first plurality of boundary conditions based upon a plurality of measurements associated with a region of interest (ROI) that is not exposed to the plurality of light source sets during the acquiring, wherein the plurality of measurements is acquired using the one or more sensors; and(B) firing, with the mobile imaging device held at the first position, in accordance with a determination that the acquired corresponding value of each boundary condition in the first plurality of boundary conditions satisfies a corresponding boundary condition specification, the plurality of light source sets ...

Bag Made From Medical-Grade Paper That Is Treated For Sterilization, With Sterilization-Process Indicators and Pigmented-Adhesive-Based Safety Features, Which Is Easy To Handle and Use

The present invention relates to bags made from medical-grade paper for sterilization, with sterilization-process indicators and pigmented-adhesive-based safety features, which is easy to handle and use and can be used to store materials, more particularly surgical medical material, for sterilization. Such bags are produced using medical-grade paper that is treated on the surface thereof with a microbicide for sterilization, and, owing to the structure and design thereof, allow safe, rapid handling of the sterilized material placed within, since there are visual indicators that guarantee the hermetic closure and sealing thereof. Furthermore, generally, the invention has printed indicators that change colour depending on the sterilization process carried out on the bags and on whether said process was carried out correctly. 1. A bag made from medical-grade paper for sterilization with sterilization-process indicators and safety with comprising:a greatest lower bound with a double bottom, this double bottom counts with an inner pigmented thermo-weldable adhesive already pigmented seal on its bottom for its hermetic closure;two lateral sides and which display rollings or bellows respectively;a superior part, which constitutes the mouth or entrance to the bag to introduce the material to sterilize, a toe in frontal superior part in the center for easy opening in the filling, in the frontal superior part and reverse it account also with a sawed edge, but in addition the part to give off the thread is straight and not sawed with that the obtaining of the segment of paper for its opening is facilitated after the sterilization, in addition it counts with an inner pigmented thermo-weldable adhesive for its closing in the superior part;it counts in the profile of the rolling with a thread that is hidden by the internal part of this profile to open the bag with greater rapidity and facility;the bag is closed longitudinally with a double pigmented adhesive line, that guarantees ...

Test Specimen Holding Device for Inspecting Sterilization or Cleaning Processes

The present invention relates to a test specimen holding device for inspecting a sterilization- and/or cleaning process. The holding device comprises: a substantially spherically shaped body comprising at least one through opening for a cleaning- and/or sterilization agent to enter the body, at least one receptacle to receive and/or to keep at least one test specimen inside the body. 113-. (canceled)14. Test specimen holding device for inspecting a sterilization- and/or cleaning process , the holding device comprising:{'b': '16', 'a substantially spherically shaped body comprising at least one through opening () for a cleaning- and/or sterilization agent to enter the body,'}at least one receptacle to receive and/or to keep at least one test specimen inside the body, characterized bya fixing disc to be fastened inside the body and being further adapted to fix the test specimen in the receptacle of the body, and wherein the fixing disc comprises at least one through opening adapted to receive a measuring tip of the test specimen.15. The holding device according to claim 14 , wherein the body comprises a first shell structure and a second shell structure claim 14 , said first and second shell structures comprise mutually corresponding fastening means for releasably interconnecting first and second shell structures.16. The holding device according to claim 15 , wherein the fastening means of the first shell structure comprises a threaded socket adapted to threadedly engage with a threaded rim of the second shell structure.17. The holding device according to claim 15 , wherein first and second shell structures comprise mutually corresponding circumferential contact surfaces adjacently arranged to the fastening means of first and second shell structures.18. The holding device according to claim 15 , wherein the first and/or the second shell structure comprise a substantially spherically- claim 15 , cylindrically- or rectangularly shaped receptacle adapted to receive a ...

Validation techniques for fluid delivery systems

A fluid delivery system may include a container that houses a medical fluid, a fluid pressurizing unit, and a fluid transfer set that transfers the medical fluid from the container to the fluid pressurizing unit. To validate the integrity and sterility of the fluid delivery system, the system may undergo testing protocols to evaluate the susceptibility of the system to pathogenic ingress, chemical degradation, and/or fluid cross-contamination between patient fluid delivery procedures. The testing protocols may help ensure that delivery system components used during multiple different fluid delivery procedures perform as well as if the components were replaced after each fluid delivery procedure.

Monitoring system based on etching of metals

Compositions, devices and processes related to etching of a very thin layer or fine particles of a metal are disclosed for monitoring a variety of parameters, such as time, temperature, time-temperature, thawing, freezing, microwave, humidity, ionizing radiation, sterilization and chemicals. These devices have capabilities of producing a long and sharp induction period of an irreversible visual change. The devices are composed of an indicator comprising a very thin layer of a metal and an activator, e.g., a reactant, such as water, water vapor, an acid, a base, oxidizing agent or their precursors, which is capable of reacting with the said indicator. Ink formulations composed of a metal powder and a proper activator can be used for monitoring several sterilization processes, such as sterilization with steam. When water is used as an activator, a thin layer of metals, such as that of aluminum can be used as steam sterilization or humidity indicator.

Sanitation method and system

A sanitation system may include a sink, a sanitation material dispenser for dispensing material such as soap, and a dryer for either dispensing dryer material such as paper towels or providing heated air. An electronic device may be in communication with one or more of these items, and a sanitation module may operate on the sanitation system. The sanitation module may time a sanitation activity for the sanitation system, such as hand washing. Content may be displayed on the electronic device, and the content may serve to engage or distract the user. The electronic device may be able to identify the individual user and customize the content. The sanitation module may time the sanitation procedure and may accordingly promote a minimum time spent on the sanitation activity. The sanitation system may also be used for monitoring either the sanitation material or the dryer material and automatically order new material when the material is low.

INDUCTIVELY-POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A surgical instrument system and method are disclosed. The surgical instrument system includes an instrument case and a charging plate that may be placed in a sterile surgical field. The charging plate is configured to receive electrical power from outside the sterile surgical field and transmit that electrical power to other devices within the sterile field. 1. A surgical instrument system , comprising:a plurality of surgical instruments configured for use during a surgical procedure,an instrument case including a bottom wall and a number of side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall to define a chamber that receives the plurality of surgical instruments,a lower housing positioned outside of the chamber and secured to the bottom wall of the metallic instrument case, the lower housing including a first induction coil, andan upper housing positioned in the chamber of the metallic instrument case, the upper housing including a second induction coil that is electrically connected to the first induction coil through one or more openings defined in the bottom wall of the metallic instrument case,wherein the plurality of surgical instruments includes a number of electrically-powered surgical instruments, each electrically-powered surgical instrument including a third inductive coil configured to receive power supplied inductively from the second induction coil.2. The surgical instrument system of claim 1 , wherein the lower housing is removably coupled to the bottom wall.3. The surgical instrument system of claim 1 , wherein one of the lower housing and the upper housing includes a connector extending through an opening defined in the bottom wall of the metallic instrument case.4. The surgical instrument system of claim 3 , wherein:the connector of one of the lower housing and the upper housing is a first connector, andthe other of the lower housing and the upper housing includes a second connector that is secured to an inner hub of the first connector.5. The ...

STERILIZATION POUCH WITH INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL INDICATORS

A sterilization package includes a first package layer and a second package layer coupled to the first package layer with a perimeter seal extending around a portion of the sterilization package to define a pouch having a proximal end and a distal end. A first sterilization indicium is disposed on the second package layer exterior of the pouch and a second sterilization indicium is disposed on the second package layer interior of the pouch. The first and second sterilization indicia are multi-parameter sterilization indicia configured to be responsive to a sterilization process such that the first and second sterilization indicia undergo a visual change to a desired ending color when the package is subjected to complete multi-parameter sterilization conditions. 1. A sterilization package comprising:a first package layer;a second package layer coupled to the first package layer with a perimeter seal extending around a portion of the sterilization package to define a pouch having a proximal end and a distal end, the pouch including a sealable opening at the proximal end;a first sterilization indicium disposed on the second package layer exterior of the pouch and proximate the distal end of the pouch, the first sterilization indicium on a side of the second package layer facing the first package layer; anda second sterilization indicium disposed on the second package layer interior of the pouch and proximate the distal end of the pouch, the second sterilization indicium on a side of the second package layer facing the first package layer,wherein the first and second sterilization indicia are multi-parameter sterilization indicia configured to be responsive to a sterilization process such that the first and second sterilization indicia undergo a visual change to a desired ending color when the package is subjected to complete multi-parameter sterilization conditions.2. The sterilization package of claim 1 , wherein the first and second indicators are configured to be ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD TO REPEATEDLY FILL AND PURGE CHANNELS OF ENDOSCOPE

A medical device reprocessor is operable to perform a method of cleaning an internal channel of a medical device. The method entails activating a first pump to deliver a detergent to the internal channel for a first predetermined duration, activating a second pump to deliver water to the internal channel to rinse out the detergent for a second predetermined duration, and activating a third pump to deliver pressurized air to the internal channel to purge out the water or detergent contained within the internal channel for a third predetermined duration. Subsequently, the method involves activating a fourth pump to deliver a predetermined volume of disinfectant to the internal channel, and reactivating the third pump to deliver pressurized air to purge out the disinfectant into a chamber. The method repeats filling the internal channel with detergent, water and disinfectant and the subsequent purging of the internal channel with pressurized air. 1. A method for reprocessing an internal channel of at a medical device , the method comprising:(a) activating a first pump to deliver a detergent to the internal channel for a first predetermined duration;(b) activating a second pump to deliver water to the internal channel to rinse out the detergent for a second predetermined duration;(c) activating a third pump to deliver pressurized air to the internal channel to purge out any remaining water or detergent contained within the internal channel for a third predetermined duration;(d) activating a fourth pump to deliver a predetermined volume of disinfectant to the internal channel;(e) reactivating the third pump to deliver pressurized air to the internal channel to purge out the disinfectant from the internal channel into a chamber;reactivating the fourth pump to deliver additional disinfectant to the internal channel; and(g) reactivating the third pump to deliver pressurized air to the internal channel to purge out the additional disinfectant from the internal channel into ...

DEVICE FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, HAVING SENSORS FOR THE STORAGE OF INFORMATION

Some embodiments are directed to a device for a surgical instrument, including at least one sensor, a circuit for controlling and processing signals coming from the at least one sensor, a memory for storing information coming from the circuit, and a radio interface for transmitting this information to an external device, the sensor(s), the circuit, the memory and the radio interface being powered by a power source, the circuit, the memory, the radio interface and the power source being housed in one or several hermetic and heat and pressure resistant case(s), in order to allow an autonomous operation of the device. 1. A device for a surgical instrument , comprising:at least one sensor;a circuit for controlling and processing signals coming from the at least one sensor;a memory for storing information coming from the circuit;a radio interface for transmitting the information to an external device;a power source that powers the at least one sensor, the circuit, the memory and the radio interfaceat least one hermetic and heat pressure resistant case, the circuit, the memory, the radio interface and the power source being housed in the at least one hermetic and heat and pressure resistant case, in order to allow an autonomous operation of the device.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one case is an overmoulding made of polymeric or thermoplastic material.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the radio interface is an RFID tag.4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor includes an accelerometer and a bimetal contactor.5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the radio interface is provided to receive second information from the external device in order to store the second information in the memory.6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the sensors are provided to transmit an interrupt to the circuit claim 1 , upon the occurrence of a predefined event claim 1 , and wherein the circuit is adapted to remain ...

MEDICAL PACKAGE

An assembly includes a medical package defining a housing configured to receive a medical supply. The medical package comprises a first sealable region and a second sealable region. The first and second sealable regions are configured to be sealed together to secure the medical supply within the housing. The medical package includes a thermal pattern configured to exhibit a first visible indicium indicative of an unsealed region between the first and second sealable regions. The thermal pattern is configured to irreversibly transform to a second visible indicium indicative of a sealed region between the first and second sealable regions in response to exposure to a temperature greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold, and to a third visible indicium indicative of a sterilized stage of the medical package in response to exposure to a temperature greater than or equal to a second temperature threshold. 1. An assembly comprising:a medical package defining a housing configured to receive a medical supply, the medical package comprising a first sealable region and a second sealable region, wherein the first and second sealable regions are configured to be sealed together to secure the medical supply within the housing, exhibit a first visible indicium indicative of an unsealed region between the first and second sealable regions or an unsterilized state of the medical package,', 'irreversibly transform from the first visible indicium to a second visible indicium indicative of a sealed region between the first and second sealable regions in response to exposure to a temperature greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold, and irreversibly transform from the first visible indicium to a third visible indicium indicative of a sterilized state of the medical package in response to exposure to a temperature greater than or equal to a second temperature threshold, wherein at least a portion of the third visible indicium is spaced from the first and ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF UV CLEANING

The present disclosure provides a system including an ultraviolet (UV) light source, a power source configured to provide power to the UV light source, and a photochromatic indicator associated with a component, the photochromatic indicator being in a first state, the UV light source being configured to change the photochromatic indicator from a first state to a second state, the second state indicating that the component has been cleaned, the second state being visible to a naked eye under ambient lighting. 1. A system , comprising:an ultraviolet (UV) light source;a power source configured to provide power to the UV light source; anda photochromatic indicator associated with a component, the photochromatic indicator being in a first state, the UV light source being configured to change the photochromatic indicator from a first state to a second state, the second state indicating that the component has been cleaned, wherein the second state is visible to a naked eye under ambient lighting.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the component is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of: a polymer claim 1 , a polycarbonate claim 1 , a metal claim 1 , a composite claim 1 , a nano-reinforced material claim 1 , an organic material claim 1 , a textile fabric claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the photochromatic indicator is in a form selected from the group consisting of: a sticker claim 1 , a thread claim 1 , a textile fabric claim 1 , an organic material claim 1 , a polycarbonate element claim 1 , a polymer element claim 1 , a metal element claim 1 , a coating claim 1 , and combinations thereof.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the photochromatic indicator is included in a tray cover claim 1 , a headrest cover claim 1 , a seat cover claim 1 , an armrest cover claim 1 , an outlet cover claim 1 , or a headset cover.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the photochromatic indicator includes a reversible photochromatic pigment ...