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Do you have examples of sterilization logs I can print out? It would be the log that documents instruments in the sterilizer, load number, date sterilized.

As a matter of policy, Ask OSAP does not offer legal advice. And, Ask OSAP is not in the position to know the requirements of each state. It is recommended that you contact your state dental board or state department of health - dental program for further information about the requirements in your state for maintaining sterilization monitoring records.

Ask OSAP can provide you with some general information on this topic. The 2003 CDC guidelines for infection control in dentistry states as follows:

Results of biological monitoring should be recorded and sterilization monitoring records (i.e., mechanical, chemical, and biological) retained long enough to comply with state and local regulations. Such records are a component of an overall dental infection-control program (see Program Evaluation). ¹

A copy of this document can be accessed at this link:
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/guidelines/index.htm ¹

The CDC summary document Summary of Infection Prevention Practices in Dental Settings: Basic Expectations for Safe Care states as follows:

Sterilization monitoring (e.g., biological, mechanical, chemical monitoring) and equipment maintenance records are an important component of a dental infection prevention program. Maintaining accurate records ensures cycle parameters have been met and establishes accountability. In addition, if there is a problem with a sterilizer (e.g., unchanged chemical indicator, positive spore test), documentation helps to determine if an instrument recall is necessary. ¹

A copy of this document can be accessed at this link:
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/guidelines/index.htm ¹

From Policy to Practice: OSAP’s Guide to the CDC Guidelines states:

Record results of biological monitoring and keep sterilization monitoring records (mechanical, chemical, and biological) long enough to comply with regulations in your state or locality. ²

Resources

1) US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infection Prevention & Control Guidelines & Recommendations. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/guidelines/index.htm Accessed on June 28, 2019.

2) Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention. From Policy to Practice by OSAP: OSAP’s Guide to the CDC Guidelines. Published by OSAP in 2016. Pages 56-59.

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