When it comes to sterilization in hospital settings, accuracy is key to ensuring patient safety. Two main types of biological indicators – those based on fluorescence and pH – are at the forefront of these efforts, each offering a unique approach to ensuring that surgical and medical instruments are completely free from microorganisms.
Fluorescence-Based Biological Indicators
Rapid biological indicators work by emitting a fluorescence (not visible to the naked eye) due to the interaction of the incubated microorganism with the medium contained in the vial. This fluorescence emission due to the enzymatic action that occurs there allows a quicker and very effective reading with the aid of reader-incubators. Busy operating rooms and intensive treatment environments especially benefit from the speed of these indicators, indicating safety, efficacy, and quality.
pH-Based Biological Indicators
pH biological indicators monitor sterilization processes in various types of equipment, and their reading occurs due to the bacteria-medium interaction that when in contact cause a pH change and consequently a change in the color of the self-contained medium. Its use is common in places that do not require urgency in the response about whether the sterilized material is sterile or not, but still ensures efficacy and an accurate reading after 24hrs.
Choosing Wisely for Each Situation
Emergency Procedures and Intensive Environments: For situations where speed is essential, fluorescence indicators are the obvious choice. Their quick reading due to the enzymatic action present there allows for quick decisions and immediate actions.
Various Procedures and Sensitive Equipment: When accuracy is crucial, pH indicators offer detailed insights. They ensure that every aspect of the sterilization process meets the highest standards, providing an additional layer of safety and confidence.
Conclusion
In the balance between fluorescence and pH, the choice depends on the nature of the procedure and the sensitivity of the instruments involved. At Hygia Bio, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach does not suit every situation. That’s why we offer a variety of biological indicators, allowing healthcare professionals to choose wisely, ensuring not only sterilization but also peace of mind in every procedure that uses properly sterilized materials.
