Course Code: REL-ACU-0-URSTCON
Hours: 1
Type: Online Course
Content Expiration Date: 12/31/2028
Learning Objectives:
Identify the key components and functions of rigid sterilization containers and how they support safe instrument processing.
Recognize when a rigid container must be disassembled, cleaned, or removed from use based on inspection findings.
Describe proper handling, storage, and transport practices to ensure sterility is maintained from sterilization to point-of-use.
Outline:
Section 1: Using and Cleaning Rigid Containers
Rigid Sterilization Containers in Practice
What Are Rigid Sterilization Containers?
Why Use Rigid Containers?
When and How Are They Used?
Inspection Before Use
Scenario-Based Question
Cleaning and Decontamination Requirements
Disassembly
Manual Cleaning
Mechanical Cleaning
Documentation and Quality Checks
Scenario-Based Question
Key Takeaways
Section 2: Preparation and Assembly of Rigid Containers
Preparing and Assembling Sterilization Package Contents
Principles of Pack Assembly and Preparation
Sterilty Assurance
Chemical Indicator (CIs) Use in Rigid Containers
Biological Indicator (BI) Use in Rigid Sterilization Containers
Tamper-Evident Seals
Rigid Container Labeling Requirements
Key Takeaways
Section 3: Instrument Sterilization Using Rigid Containers
Sterilizing Instruments Packaged in Rigid Containers
Purchasing and Validation
Sterilization Methods
Positioning in the Sterilizer
Drying Considerations
Scenario-Based Question
Wet Packs
What Are Wet Packs?
Immediate-Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS) and Rigid Containers
Managing Wet and Hot Instruments
Ongoing Monitoring and Troubleshooting
Review Chemical and Biological Indicator Results
Investigate Cycle Alarms or Failures Immediately
Track and Document Wet Pack Occurrences
Additional Monitoring Tips
Scenario-Based Question
Key Takeaways
Section 4: Maintaining Sterility During Storage and Transportation
Maintaining Sterility
Event-Related Sterility
Best Practices for Maintaining Sterility of Rigid Containers
Scenario-Based Question
Storage of Sterile Rigid Containers
Post-Sterilization Handling Protocols
Scenario-Based Question
Transporting Rigid Containers
Safe Transport of Sterile Containers
Point-of-Use Checks for Rigid Containers
IUSS: Transport and Use Considerations
Scenario-Based Question
Key Takeaways
Section 4: Conclusion
Course Summary
Course Contributors
ReferencesSubject Matter Expert: Brandy Verton, BSN, RN, CNOR
Brandy is a certified perioperative nurse with a background in both scrub and circulator roles across a variety of surgical specialties. She earned her BSN with summa cum laude honors from Capella University and has served as a Surgical Services Clinical Educator and Periop 101 instructor. Her early clinical experience on a postoperative and medical-surgical overflow unit shaped her commitment to patient-centered care and team collaboration. Throughout her career, she has contributed to hospital committees and process improvement efforts focused on safety, education, and quality outcomes. Brandy is passionate about creating practical, real-world education that helps clinicians feel supported in their work, build confidence in their skills, and continue delivering safe, effective care.
Target Audience:
The target audience for this course is: Central Sterile Personnel; in the following settings: Ambulatory Care, Hospitals: Acute, Hospitals: Critical Access (CAHs).
Relias Learning will be transparent in disclosing if any commercial support, sponsorship or co-providership is present prior to the learner completing the course.
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All courses offered by Relias Learning, LLC are developed from a foundation of diversity, inclusiveness, and a multicultural perspective. Knowledge, values and awareness related to cultural competency are infused throughout the course content.
To earn continuing education credit for this course you must achieve a passing score of 80% on the post-test and complete the course evaluation.
Course Delivery Method and Format
Asynchronous Distance Learning with interactivity which includes quizzes with questions/answers, and posttests.