Patent ID: 7874128
Filing Date: 2011-01-25
Classification: A61L

Abstract:
1. A testing unit, positionable within a sterilization packaging unit for testing said sterilization packaging unit provided for the sterilization of objects with regard to the efficacy of the sterilization packaging unit in preventing microbial recontamination of the sterilized objects after they have been sterilized, said testing unit comprising: a sterile dry matrix adapted to support a complete nutrient medium, said sterile dry matrix being open to microbes within said sterilization packaging unit; a sealed receptacle containing a sterile liquid, said receptacle being operatively associated with said sterile dry matrix such that opening of said receptacle and application of said liquid contained therein onto said sterile dry matrix within said sterilization packaging unit occurs without opening or otherwise compromising the integrity of said packaging unit; and wherein opening of said receptacle allows said sterile liquid to contact said matrix, the combination of said sterile liquid and said sterile matrix being capable of supporting microbial reproduction on said sterile matrix.