When is the Bowie-Dick test typically performed?

The Bowie-Dick test is specifically designed to assess the efficacy of steam sterilization in porous loads, ensuring that the steam penetrates effectively to eliminate microbial life. This test is performed before the sterilization process begins. By inserting the test pack into the sterilizer before the initial sterilization cycle, the result indicates whether the sterilization conditions are appropriate for subsequent loads. A pass indicates that the steam has properly penetrated through the materials and that sterilization will be successful.

Performing this test after the sterilization process would not provide meaningful data to confirm that the sterilizing conditions were adequate prior to sterilization, thereby failing to catch any potential issues that could compromise sterile techniques. The test is not typically done weekly or only when failures occur; it is most effective when conducted routinely in conjunction with the first load of the day to ensure ongoing confidence in the sterilization process.