Care & Sterilization Guide

This guide is for sterile processing, OR staff, and anyone responsible for cleaning, inspection, and sterilization of NRSA reusable needle drivers.

• Immediately after use, remove gross soil with a sterile, lint-free sponge moistened with sterile water.
• Do NOT allow blood or saline to dry on the instrument. Avoid using saline for soaking (risk of corrosion).
• Engage the ratchet only to the first tooth for transport. Do not clamp tightly when not in use.

• Place instruments in a covered, leak-proof container labeled "Biohazard."
• Keep instruments moist using an enzymatic pretreatment or damp lint-free towel during transport.

• Wear appropriate PPE in accordance with facility policy.
• Disassemble any modular components if applicable (current NRSA needle driver is non-modular).
• Verify the instrument is in the open position before cleaning so all surfaces are exposed.

• Place the needle driver in a dedicated instrument rack with jaws and hinge fully open.
• Follow the validated washer-disinfector cycle recommended by your facility and detergent vendor.
• Ensure the cycle includes: pre-rinse, enzymatic wash, neutralization, final rinse, and thermal disinfection.

Dry completely with a lint-free cloth and/or medical-grade air. Moisture must not remain in the hinge or jaws.

Visually inspect under adequate lighting:

• No residual soil, blood, or detergent film
• No corrosion, pitting, cracks, or worn tungsten carbide inserts
• Jaws close in perfect alignment; no scissoring or gaps
• Smooth ratchet engagement and release without sticking

• Apply an instrument milk or water-soluble, steam-compatible lubricant to the hinge and moving parts if required by your facility policy.
• Follow lubricant IFU and avoid over-lubrication. Remove excess before packaging.

• Place the instrument in a dedicated tray or peel pouch that allows full visualization and jaw protection.
• Do not overcrowd trays; ensure joints and appendages are not under stress.
• Use appropriate internal and external chemical indicators according to facility policy.

Sterilizer: Prevacuum steam sterilizer meeting ANSI/AAMI ST79 requirements.

Cycle Parameters (facility must validate):

Ensure instruments are dry at the end of the cycle before storage.

Ethylene oxide (EtO), low-temperature hydrogen peroxide plasma, or vaporized hydrogen peroxide may be used if validated and approved by the facility. Follow the sterilizer manufacturer's IFU.

NRSA needle drivers contain no electronic components and are compatible with standard low-temperature sterilization processes when properly cleaned and dried prior to processing.

• Store in a clean, dry, designated sterile storage area protected from dust and moisture.
• Maintain sterility in accordance with facility shelf-life policy (event-related sterility recommended).
• Avoid dropping or stacking heavy items on top of trays that contain needle drivers.

• Perform functional checks at regular intervals or per facility schedule.
• Remove from service if jaw alignment, ratchet function, or tungsten carbide inserts show wear, chipping, or loss of grip.

Processing instructions are designed to be compatible with:

• AAMI ST79 — Steam sterilization and sterility assurance in healthcare facilities
• ISO 17664-1 — Guidelines for information supplied by the manufacturer for reprocessing reusable devices

Facilities remain responsible for validating their specific equipment, water quality, and cycle parameters.