[Histonet] RE: Microwave verification

[Weems, Joyce K.]

Someone else asked about this as well.. hope the attachment of our very simple instructions is ok to send. Sor far this has worked for us...j

Here is CAP checklist:

ANP.27170 Microwave Usage Phase I
Microwave devices are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
NOTE: Microwave devices should be used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, unless
CAP requirements are more stringent.
Evidence of Compliance:
✓ Written procedure for microwave usage

ANP.28290 Microwave Monitoring Phase I
Microwave devices are at least annually monitored for reproducibility.
NOTE: “Reproducibility” is defined as consistency in diagnostic quality obtained from microwave
equipment and procedures. For some devices, reproducibility may be evaluated by monitoring the
temperatures of identical samples after microwave processing. For those microwave devices
(particularly those incorporated into histology processing equipment) that use
temperature-independent methods to evaluate reproducibility, the laboratory should have a written
procedure for monitoring reproducibility that follows instrument manufacturer's instructions.
Information on such procedures is given in the reference to this checklist requirement (see below).
The microwave device should be tested for radiation leakage if there is visible damage to the device.
Evidence of Compliance:
✓ Written procedure for monitoring the diagnostic quality of specimens processed using microwaves

ANP.28860 Microwave Container Venting Phase I
All containers used in microwave devices are vented.
NOTE: Venting of containers is necessary so that processing occurs at atmospheric pressure, to
prevent explosion. For procedures using pressure above that of the atmosphere, specialized
containers must be used, with strict adherence to manufacturer instructions.
Evidence of Compliance:
✓ Written procedure for the use of appropriately vented containers

ANP.29430 Microwave Venting Phase I
Microwave devices are properly vented.
NOTE: Microwave devices should be placed in an appropriate ventilation hood to contain airborne
chemical contaminants and potentially infectious agents. Before operation of the microwave device,
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Emory/Saint Josephs, Inc
Main Laboratory
Anatomic Pathology Checklist 01.04.2012
flammable and corrosive reagents should be removed from the hood, to prevent fire or chemical
damage to the electronic components of the device. Microwave devices used outside a fume hood
should have an integral fume extractor that is certified by the manufacturer for use in a clinical
laboratory.
The effectiveness of ventilation should be monitored at least annually.
This checklist requirement does not apply if only non-hazardous reagents (and non-infectious
specimens) are used in the device (e.g. water, certain biological stains, paraffin sections). The
laboratory should consult the MSDS sheets received with reagents and stains to assist in determining
proper handling requirements and safe use.
This checklist item does not apply to microwave devices that are designed by the manufacturer to
operate without venting.
Evidence of Compliance:
✓ Records of annual evaluation of ventilation effectiveness



Joyce Weems
Pathology Manager
678-843-7376 Phone
678-843-7831 Fax
joyce.weems <@t> emoryhealthcare.org



www.saintjosephsatlanta.org
5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road
Atlanta, GA 30342

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-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bustamante, Lin
Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:42 PM
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] Microwave verification

Does anyone knows a protocol for Microwave verification? (CAP requirement).
Thank you.
Lin Bustamante
Central Texas Gastrointestinal Clinic
Histology laboratory.
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