Is it necessary to bag or package instruments for sterilization in chemical vapor sterilizers?

Yes, CDC Guidelines for Infection Control recommend that all items be packaged to maintain sterility. As with steam sterilization, make sure the packaging and total load are arranged to allow full penetration of the chemical vapor into each package or pouch. Due to the low moisture content of V-Cide Chemical Vapor Sterilant Solution, many types of chemical indicators may not turn as dark as they do in steam autoclaving.