PINNACLE AEC

Description

The Serim PINNACLE™ Monitor for Automated Enzymatic Cleaning Process (AEC) monitors the cleaning efficacy of medical washer disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners using enzymatic detergents. This cleaning verification test may be used during a normal cleaning cycle and placed in the basket along with the surgical instruments.  (This test is not recommended for cart washers since these washers use lower temperature wash cycles which frequently reduces overall enzymatic activity.)

The test incorporates a dyed protein that is bound in the indicator pad.  During the instrument wash cycle the color of the indicator pad will change in response to:

AAMI now recommends daily testing of mechanical cleaning equipment including washer disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners.¹  AAMI also recommends using a verification test that responds to the many interdependent factors influencing overall cleaning efficacy.¹  Many facilities currently verify the equipment daily before the first load of the day with an indicator on every level of the washer.²  Some facilities even verify every load.

PINNACLE Monitor for AEC will assist a facility’s on-site quality assurance program in verifying that the cleaning equipment used for reprocessing of medical devices is working properly as stated in ST79, Annex D.¹

1.  Verifying cleaning processes: the role of washer indicators.  Burke A, Antonucci C., HEALTHCARE Purchasing NEWS, September 2010, pg 40.

2. Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation. Comprehensive guide to steam sterilization and sterility assurance in health care facilities. ANSI/AAMI ST79:2017 & A1:2017 (Annex D).

Test Range:

 5176 Product Profile ( pdf)

 5176 IFU ( pdf)

 5176 Log Sheet ( pdf)

 Evaluation of Ultrasonic cleaners using PINNACLE Monitor for Enzymatic Cleaning (AEC) ( pdf)

After the wash cycle is complete, unhook the holder from the basket or rack and remove the test strip.  Ensure the pads are facing up and interpret the results by comparing the color of the larger indicator pad to the smaller internal color standard.

PASS:  Indicator Pad is lighter in color than the color standard

FAIL:  Indicator Pad is similar to or darker in color than the color standard