Abstract: This invention relates to a foaming enzyme composition and delivery method useful for the cleaning and maintenance of moist conditions of the surfaces of soiled instruments, utensils and other devices prior to final cleaning and/or sterilization. The aqueous composition preferably consists of a combination of: (1) an enzyme cleaning solution, (2) foam-building ingredients; (3) a corrosion inhibitor; and (4) an antimicrobial agent. The composition may be dispensed from a pump spray as a stable foam which covers the surfaces of the instrument to be cleaned, and remains on the surface of the instrument for at least 30 minutes, and preferably until the instruments are finally cleaned and sterilized. The composition and delivery method of the present invention is particularly useful for the pre-cleaning of complex medical instruments such as endoscopes.

Abstract: An aqueous acidic disinfecting and sterilizing composition for medical instruments, which may include brass, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, plastic and ceramic components. The composition contains hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, a corrosion inhibitor system, a surfactant and a stabilizer. These compositions have in use stability and are effective as a disinfectant and/or sterilant either at room or when heated. For other applications, surfactants, sequestering agents and stabilizers may be optional.

Abstract: A sterility indicator which comprises means defining an elongated outer compartment having liquid impermeable and substantially non-gas absorptive walls, said compartment having a closed end and a first opening at a distal end thereof and a second opening which is gas transmissive and bacteria-impermeable disposed at least partially around the perimeter of said outer compartment and located near said first opening, with a predetermined number of viable microorganisms suitable for monitoring steam sterilization being confined within said outer compartment adjacent said second opening, and a predetermined number of viable microorganisms suitable for monitoring gas sterilization being confined within said outer compartment away from said second opening and opposite said distal end; a closure member normally closing said first opening and movable to a second position to also close said second opening; and an inner compartment containing a nutrient medium disposed within said outer compartment with said nutrient m

Abstract: The present invention is directed to sterility indicators of the self-contained biological type and provides a device that assures direct impingement of the sterilant onto the microproorganisms. In this manner, the sterilant exposure conditions experienced by the test organisms reflects the exposure conditions to which the articles in the sterilizer are subjected. The device of the invention provides that the microorganisms are not directly contiguous with the ampule containing the aqueous nutrient medium.

Abstract: A disposable sterilizer mechanical air removal test pack comprising an outer container in the form of a box having a definite shape and being formed of a relatively air and steam permeable material coated with a form-stabilizing layer of a relatively air and steam impermeable material, and a body of relatively air and steam permeable material enclosed in the box. An indicator means is arranged in the body of material for indicating when contact with steam has taken place. The box includes a plurality of closure flaps which provide interruptions which control and direct the flow of steam into and air out of the interior of the body of material with the flow of steam and air occurring predominantly in a lateral direction through the body of material.