Effectiveness of steam sterilization of reusable medical devices in primary and secondary care public hospitals in Nepal and factors associated with ineffective sterilization: A?nation-wide cross-sectional study

摘要

Background Inadequate sterilization of reusable medical devices can lead to healthcare associated infections (HAIs) through person-to-person or environmental transmission of pathogens. Autoclaving (steam sterilization) is most commonly used for sterilizing medical devices in healthcare facilities. We conducted a nation-wide cross-sectional study to evaluate the effectiveness of steam sterilization practices in primary and secondary care public hospitals in Nepal and to identify factors associated with ineffective sterilization.