These CI require the interaction of temperature and time, temperature and steam, or temperature, steam, and time before a noticeable change occurs. Integrator: This multi-parameter CI may be in the form of a paper strip, liquid in a vial, or a pellet in a packet. Once the CI is exposed to a certain temperature (such as 121☌, which is 250☏), the chemical quickly changes color. The stripes on autoclave tapes, the indicator areas on paper strips, and the printed pouch markings contain a thermochromic ink sensitive to heat. Temperature-specific CI: Temperature-specific CI are in the form of tapes (autoclave tape) - paper strips or tabs or printed markings on the outside of sterilization pouches, usually in the shape of an arrow or circle. There are basically two types of CI: those that are affected only by heat (temperature-specific CI) and those that respond to a combination of conditions such as temperature, time, and the presence of steam (multi-parameter CI or integrators). ![]() ![]() This is in contrast to biological indicators (BI) that contain a biological system (bacterial spores) that is affected by high heat. Since these indicators contain chemicals that are affected by high heat, they are referred to as chemical indicators (CI). The color change occurs because the indicator contains one or more chemicals that change color when exposed to high heat or other sterilizing conditions. Most of these indicators change color (some change form, from solid to liquid) when exposed to the high temperatures achieved in a sterilizer, or to a combination of temperature and time. Using chemical indicators should be a standard part of the office infection-control program.Ĭhemical indicators are visual aids that show if an item has been subjected to the sterilization process.
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