We use a steam autoclave sterilizer in our office. How do we know it is working correctly?

For sterilization quality assurance, CDC Guidelines advise the use of three components:

1. Physical monitors such as temperature, pressure and length of cycle using gauges on sterilizer. New sterilizers feature print-outs for each cycle.

2. Chemical ink monitors (external and internal) for every package and every load.

3. Biological monitors (spore tests) weekly.