What needs to be confirmed in the autoclave log before using instrumentation?

In the context of sterilization processes, confirming the exposure temperature in the autoclave log is crucial before using instrumentation. The exposure temperature indicates whether the sterilization cycle reached the required temperature necessary to effectively eliminate microorganisms, including bacterial spores. Each type of sterilization requires specific temperature thresholds to guarantee that instruments are truly sterile and safe for use in surgical procedures.

Verifying that the exposure temperature meets the necessary standards ensures that the instruments have been subjected to conditions that are scientifically proven to achieve sterilization. If the temperature was not reached, it raises the risk of infection or contamination during surgical procedures, thereby compromising patient safety.

While factors such as steam pressure, duration of sterilization, and type of instruments are also important in the sterilization process, they are secondary to confirming that the instruments have been exposed to the correct temperature necessary for effective sterilization.