When should chemical indicators be checked on sterile trays?

Chemical indicators play a crucial role in verifying the effectiveness of the sterilization process. They are designed to provide visual confirmation that specific conditions of sterilization have been met. Checking chemical indicators before sterilization is essential, as this ensures that the sterilization parameters are capable of achieving the intended microbicidal effects.

When chemical indicators are checked before sterilization, it confirms that the items being sterilized are compatible with the sterilization process and that they will respond accurately to the conditions applied. This step is critical because any potential failures in sterilization can put patient safety at risk.

Checking these indicators after cleaning or during cooling does not ensure that the sterilization process was effective, as they need to respond to the conditions generated during the actual sterilization phase. Thus, monitoring them before the sterilization process ensures that standards are maintained and safeguards against contamination are established.