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Which Solution is Appropriate for my Foot Care Instrument Cleaning Needs?

Proper infection control is one of the most important aspects of foot care. While foot care practitioners generally don’t come into contact with blood, the risk of infection is just as great in a foot care clinic as it is in any other medical setting. This is why it is essential for foot care nurses to choose the right disinfection solution for their practice. There are many factors to consider when choosing a disinfection solution, including the type of microorganisms that need to be controlled, the level of activity required, and the compatibility with materials and equipment. With so many products on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. However, by following these guidelines, foot care nurses can be confident that they are selecting the best possible solution for their patients.


There are two major factors to consider when choosing a solution:

  1. Does equipment come into contact with intact skin?
  2. Does equipment come into contact with mucous membranes or blood?


There are two types of instruments used in medical settings: critical and non-critical. Critical instruments are those that come into contact with mucous membranes or open wounds, and as such, they must be sterilized between each use. Non-critical instruments, on the other hand, are not in direct contact with patients and so only require cleaning with a low-level or intermediate disinfectant. The CDC provides guidelines on how to properly clean and disinfect both types of instruments. Semi-critical instruments, which come into contact with mucous membranes but not open wounds, should be sterilized or treated with a high-level disinfectant after each use. Following these guidelines helps to ensure that patients remain safe and healthy.

Foot Instrument Cleaning Solutions

Miltex Surgical Instrument Cleaner





Before disinfecting or sterilizing your instruments, it is essential that you clean them thoroughly. Any dirt, blood, or other debris on the surface of the instruments can reduce the effectiveness of the disinfectant or sterilizing solution. For this reason, it is important to use a reliable instrument cleaning solution. Miltex Surgical Instrument Cleaner is pH-neutral and biodegradable, making it safe for use with ultrasonic cleaners or manual cleaning processes. In addition, Miltex Surgical Instrument Cleaner is designed to effectively remove all types of contaminants from your instruments. It’s also ideal for extended soaking. Militex doesn't contain corrosives such as chlorines, phosphates, or hydroxides. As a result, it can help to ensure that your instruments are properly disinfected or sterilized.

To clean instruments manually, use a small handheld brush while keeping the instrument fully immersed. Rinse the cleaned instrument thoroughly under running water. This will help to remove any residual cleaner and prevent corrosion. If you are cleaning delicate instruments, it is best to soak them in Miltex for no more than 10 minutes. After soaking, rinse the instruments thoroughly and dry them with a soft cloth before sterilizing.



Miltex Spray Lube

Using a lubricant on movable jointed instruments such as clippers is important to prevent mineral deposits and extend the life of the instrument. Using a simple solution such as Miltex Spray Lube after washing can help keep them working like new for much longer. Miltex Spray Lube creates a barrier between the metal parts of the instrument, preventing minerals from being deposited onto the surfaces and causing sticking. Not only does this help to keep instruments working smoothly, but it also prevents rust and corrosion. There’s no need for additional rinsing after lubrication.

Low-Level Instrument Disinfectants


One of the most common types of medical disinfectant is a low-level medical instrument disinfectant. These disinfectants are designed to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses on contact. They are often used on surfaces such as countertops, door handles, and other high-touch areas. In addition to being used in healthcare settings, low-level medical instrument disinfectants can also be used in home kitchens and bathrooms. When using any type of disinfectant, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully in order to reduce the risk of infection.

Intermediate Disinfectants


There are a variety of intermediate-level disinfectants available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Phenols are broad-spectrum agents that are effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, they are corrosive and can cause skin irritation. Iodophors are also broad-spectrum agents, but they are less irritating to the skin and have a lower risk of corrosion. Alcohols are fast-acting and have a low risk of toxicity, but they are not as effective against certain types of bacteria, including mycobacterium tuberculosis. Chlorine is a potent germicide that is effective against a wide variety of microorganisms, including mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, it is corrosive and can cause skin irritation.



High-Level Disinfectants

There are a number of high-level disinfectants that can be used for medical sterilization purposes. The most common are ethylene oxide, glutaraldehyde, and peracetic acid. Ethylene oxide is the most popular choice for medical sterilization, as it is effective against a wide range of bacteria and viruses. Glutaraldehyde is another popular choice, as it is highly effective against bacteria and fungi. Peracetic acid is also an effective sterilant, but it can be corrosive to some materials. All three of these disinfectants are safe to use and have a high level of efficacy.