OPA High-Level Disinfectants Face-Off: Rapicide OPA/28 vs. MetriCide OPA
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by SurgiMac LLC
3 min reading time
Step right up, folks! We're rolling out the red carpet for a clash of titans today. On one side, we have Rapicide OPA/28 by SPS Medical Supply, and on the other, it's MetriCide OPA by Metrex. Both are high-level disinfectants designed to eliminate pathogens and protect patients. But which one should you bet your money on? Buckle up, because we're about to find out!
The Basics: What are OPA High-Level Disinfectants?
Orchestrated phenyl ammonium high-level disinfectants, or OPA, are the heartthrobs of the sterilization world. They're engineered for rapid-kill and extended-use in the sterilization game. Perfect for sensitive equipment that can't be steam sterilized. A high-level disinfectant for reprocessing reusable heat-sensitive semi-critical medical devices such as endoscopic, respiratory therapy, and anaesthesia equipment. Rapid 5-minute soak time: at 77 °F (25 °C) in an automated endoscope reprocessor as part of a validated reprocessing procedure.
Must-Know Terms:
OPA: Orchestrated phenyl ammonium
High-Level Disinfectant: Kills all microbes except high levels of bacterial spores
RTU: Ready to Use
Rapicide OPA/28 High-Level Disinfectant by SPS Medical Supply: The Lowdown
Rapicide OPA/28 promises a max 28-day reuse and comes packed in a 1-gallon jug. Rapicide OPA/28 is great for a multitude of medical devices, like endoscopes and surgical instruments. The "28" in the name refers to its extended 28-day life, reducing waste and upping its eco-friendly ante.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
Cons
Fast disinfection time
Requires thorough rinsing
Long 28-Day Reuse
Might be more expensive upfront
Broad-spectrum efficacy
Effective in various temperatures
MetriCide OPA by Metrex: What's the Deal?
MetriCide OPA aims to achieve the same high-level disinfection but with a different formula. Known for its rapid high-level disinfection, it has a shorter reuse life, but a faster kill time.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
Cons
Rapid High-Level Disinfection
Shorter Reuse Life
Chemical concentration monitor
Requires MEC monitoring
Usable in automated processors
Contains surfactants
The Throwdown: Rapicide vs. MetriCide
Longevity: Rapicide wins. With a 28-day reuse life, it's the turtle in this race. Slow and steady.
Rapid Action: MetriCide takes the cake. If speed's your thing, look no further.
Cost-Effectiveness: A tie! Rapicide might be more expensive upfront, but its long life balances out MetriCide's lower initial cost.
Personal Picks for Different Needs
If you're running a bustling practice with a high turnover of instruments, MetriCide is your go-to. For those seeking longevity and environmental efficiency, Rapicide OPA/28 stands out. If you're looking for other sterilization options, don't forget to check out SurgiMac's collection of sterilizers.
So, who's the champion in this OPA duel? Well, it's like choosing between coffee and tea. Both have their merits and are tailored for different needs. Do a quick check of your practice's needs, and the choice becomes clear.
For a more detailed dive into other sterilization and cleaning products, feel free to visit SurgiMac's MaxSafe collection.