Using Steam Tape Inside

[CSGIRL]

I have a question for everyone. Is there any documentation that states you can or can not use Steam Tape inside of wrapped packages? We have looked everywhere and can not find anything. Please help me!

Thanks, CSGIRL

[sheper1]

What are you using it for inside the wrapped item?

[Harvey Johnson]

Logically it would seem that if the tape were approved for wrap, in that it does not block the path of sterilant (as the case with plastic peel pouches), it would be OK inside of wrapped packages. We have been using a small piece to close paper pouches with no problems. AAMI ST 79 Section 8.3.3 addresses closure tape.

[CSGIRL]

We had a few people from another facility come by to see how we were processing our items. They were explaining that when they use a towel to protect the item before wrapping it, they would use a piece of tape to hold the towel together. They would also use more tape to hold the flaps together on the wrapper inside. Then they would use a piece of tape on the outside. It just seems like too much tape. I was always told not to use any tape inside any wrapped package. Thanks for the information.

[TNPcorpsman84]

I had always used steam tape inside sets to secure a tight roll towel or flaps of linen until out OR director told us to stop, stating something about AORN or AAMI standards and rambling about the adhesive causing problems. I researched the 3m 1255 tape we use and the package insert states the following:
"DO NOT use the steam indicator tape to secure packs wrapped with reusable, barrier treated or woven polyester fabrics. Potential
problems may occur with marginal adhesion and/or adhesive residue."

[wcj]

we have always used a small piece of tape to seal paper pouches inside of wrapped sets.
any type of small items such as drill bits or pins the nurses complain they have a hard time finding when they open a set, it just keeps everything together. Never had a problem or complaint.

[Chuck Hughes]

I would be concerned with several things, if placing indicator tape inside trays and coming into contact with surgical instruments: 1. Lead in the tape that makes the change from white to brown, may cause harm to patients, 2. Latex in the adhesive may cause an alergic reaction with latex sensitive patients, and 3. Adhesive could cause sterility concern, as it has not been validated. While Latex free/lead free tape is now available, the adhesive/sterility issue is still a concern, although it can be validated if interested in doing so.

[cpdguy]

If you are using the tape ( this is a Class 1 type indicator) as the indicator for QA a reason inside the tray. In my view you should change your practice. According to AAMI , you need a 3,4, or 5 type indicator insdie a tray. You can find this in ST 79.

Using tape to secure, is a practice as we can see by the comments is done by many. I would just make sure you use the best type of tape ( lead and latex free) is the best type.

My two cents.

[allis]

The steam tape is an external indicator. I think that says it all! However, I would like to hear what you guys think of EtO and STERAD tapes! I know they are external indicators also! Thanks in advance!