What is the expiration date of a sterile package?
May 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the shelf life of a sterile pack mainly depends on whether the sterile pack has been opened. An unopened sterile pack typically has a shelf life of 7-14 days, while an opened sterile pack usually remains effective for 4 hours. When using a sterile pack, it is important to maintain clean and disinfected hands to avoid contaminating the sterile items.
Under normal circumstances, a sterile pack refers to a surgical pack or instrument pack that has undergone high-temperature or low-temperature sterilization, with its contents maintained in a sterile state. The shelf life of a sterile pack mainly depends on whether it has been opened. An unopened sterile pack typically has a shelf life of 7-14 days, while a previously opened sterile pack usually has a shelf life of 4 hours. Detailed analysis is as follows:
An unopened sterile pack typically has a shelf life of 7-14 days. This shelf life is based on the strict sterile processing the pack undergoes during production and its storage under dry, light-protected, and temperature-appropriate conditions.
For a previously opened sterile pack, the shelf life is typically 4 hours. This is because once the sterile pack is opened, the sterile items inside are exposed to air and are susceptible to contamination. Therefore, they must be used within the specified time to ensure sterility and safety.
When using a sterile pack, it is important to maintain clean and disinfected hands to avoid contaminating the sterile items. At the same time, correct sterile procedures should also be followed to ensure the maintenance of sterility.
