Start with the test purpose
Bowie–Dick testing assesses air removal and steam penetration in the specified steam sterilizer application. A Helix system uses a hollow pathway as a process challenge. Similar indicator colours do not establish equivalence between the two systems.
Treat the device and indicator as a system
Before ordering, identify the sterilizer model, intended test programme, challenge device and compatible indicator. Ask whether the item is a complete pack, a test card or a reusable device with consumables. Do not interchange strips or assemble a substitute system based only on dimensions.
Make the result traceable
A practical record identifies the test system, lot, sterilizer, programme, date, observed pattern and person assessing it. An unacceptable result requires the facility’s investigation procedure; a successful test is not a certificate that every instrument in a later load is sterile.
References
Educational overview. Follow the applicable product instructions and your facility’s approved procedures.
Related products
- EEP Bowie-Dick Test Pack · KRBD-200
- EEP Bowie-Dick Test Card · KRBD-118
- EEP Helix Test System · KRBD-111