Welch Allyn Vaginal Specula - User Manual User Manual
Page 3
PRECA
UTIONS
The size and shape of the speculum is determined by the patient’
s anatomy and need for
surgical procedure. For example, electrosurgery and laser procedures require special instrumentation
and that is not interchangeable. Injury to the patient or examiner can occur if the proper
speculum is not used. The following are some of the recommendations for the use of the
various types of specula.
1
Stainless steel, disposable or reusable plastic
General Exam
Colposcopy
Cervical P
o
lypectom
y
Bipolar Cauterization
Endometrial Biopsy
Hysterograph
y
Cryosurgery
Conization
2
Prima Series
™
and Rose Coated, specula monopolar electrosurgical
procedures (verify patient is grounded), e.g. electrosurgical procedures
Check the surfaces and coating of these instruments for smoothness and is intact prior to their use.
If any flaws are seen, do not use the instrument. Insert smoke evacuation tubing prior to use in
electrosurgical procedures. It is possible to use these instruments wherever stainless steel specula
are indicated.
Note:
Coating wear at pivot points is considered normal in everyday use.
Take care during the procedure to avoid contact with these areas.
3
Laser required in non-reflective procedures i.e. laser
.
DIRECTION FOR USE
The size and type of speculum is determined by the patients’ anatomy and planned need
for the use of the instrument. With the patient in the lithotomy position, a warmed speculum
is inserted, usually without lubrication, in a horizontal fashion holding the instrument in the
dominant hand while the 2nd and 3rd fingers of the non-dominant hand spread the labia
minora and slightly depress the posterior forchette. The speculum is gently advanced
partially opened until the cervix is clearly visualized. The speculum is then opened more
fully and fixed with the blade and handle locks allowing for optimum visualization and
patient comfort. Do not force the introduction of a speculum and verify placement is not painful.
After visualization and completion of the examination or vaginal surgical procedure(s), the
locks are loosened, the speculum slightly opened further
, and then released as the
instrument is gently removed. Use lubrication if no cytology or colposcopic exam was done.
2
5
S
T
ORA
GE
Store instruments in a dry
, moisture-free area. Store the instruments in a protective tray with partitions.
Protect with cloth or gauze if stored in drawers.
S
TERILIZA
TION
Steam Autoclave
Sterilization
n
Thoroughly clean the instrument of all foreign matter prior to sterilization.
n
Follow the manufacturer’
s instructions for operation and loading of steam autoclave.
n
Direct steam exposure to all surfaces of the instrument during sterilization is required.
n
Autoclave temperatures should not exceed 280°F (137°C); pressure should not
exceed 32 p.s.i. (2.2 atmospheres).
n
Standard cycle of 270°F (132°C) for 10 minutes will vary depending on autoclave
model, autoclave size, load size, and load configuration.
Allow longer times for lower temperatures. Allow instruments to cool down from
autoclave to room temperature. Do not immerse in any fluid until the instrument has
been allowed to cool.
Gravity Displacement Cycles
270°—275°F / 10-15 minutes or
250°F / 15-30 minutes
P
revacuum Cycles
270°—275°F / 3-4 minutes