title: When the biological indicator is positive: investigating autoclave failures.
abstract: A series of positive biological indicators in steam autoclaves from different hospital departments within the same building were traced to blocked steam traps on building condensate lines. The steps taken during the investigation and a protocol for management of positive biological indicators are described.
authors.affiliation: Division of Medical Microbiology, Vancouver Hospital and Health Sciences Centre, BC, Canada.
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Bryce
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Roberts
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Clements
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: MacLean
mesh_terms: D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D013227:Steam; D013242:Sterilization / Q000295:instrumentation*
chemical_list: D013227:Steam