Free printable template · PDF
Autoclave Sterilization Log
A cycle-by-cycle log for your autoclave or steam sterilizer. One line per load: what went in, the cycle and its time, temperature and pressure, the chemical indicator result, whether a spore test was in the load, and who ran it.
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Autoclave Sterilization Log
MedSpaBinder
Clinic
Sterilizer (make, model, serial)
Month and year
CDC: for every cycle record the sterilizer and cycle, load number, contents, exposure time and temperature, operator, and indicator results.
Reviewed by: ______________________ Date: ____________ Temperature unit (circle): °F / °C
What an autoclave log should record
CDC's sterilization guideline asks for a record of every sterilization cycle: the type of sterilizer and cycle used, the load identification number, the load contents, the exposure parameters such as time and temperature, the operator's name or initials, and the results of mechanical, chemical and biological monitoring. Each column on this sheet maps to one of those.
How to use this log
- Give every load a number and write it on each package's label with the date, so a problem can be traced to the exact items in that load.
- Read the time, temperature and pressure from the printout or gauges for every cycle, and tick the "Printout / gauges OK?" column only when they match the cycle your sterilizer's manufacturer specifies.
- Check the chemical indicator inside each package when it is opened, and the external indicator when the load comes out.
- Mark the loads that carried a biological indicator (spore test) and record the result on your spore test log.
- Don't use items from a load whose readings or indicators failed. Reprocess them and note what happened.
Cycle settings
Time, temperature and pressure depend on the sterilizer, the cycle and whether items are wrapped. Use the settings in your sterilizer's instructions and your instrument makers' instructions, and write them at the top of the sheet if your team runs the same cycle every time.
Questions
Is a printer on the autoclave enough?
The printout is the mechanical record, and it's worth keeping. The log is what ties each printout to a load, its contents, the indicator results and the person who ran it. Staple or file the printouts with this sheet.
How long should sterilization records be kept?
CDC points to the retention period set by your state and accrediting body. Ask your state board or medical director, and keep these records at least as long as your spore test results.
Sources
General guidance, not legal or medical advice. Requirements vary by state; follow your medical director and product labels.