• Journal of muscle and joint health
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• v.30 no.3
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• pp.263-272
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• 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to provide a scientific basis for shelf life and re-establish the shelf life in a hospital environment by investigating the validity periods of various packaging materials. Methods: We selected six departments to store sterilized items, prepared 482 sterilized items, and stored them for 12 months. Each sample was tested using a microbiological culture in the laboratory every two weeks. When the result was positive, the sample was considered contaminated. The temperature and relative humidity were measured using an automatic control system to investigate the storage environment during the study period. Results: Except for two samples, which were positive in the 22nd and 28th weeks, 480 samples were negative. The temperature and relative humidity of the sample storage area were measured every week. The annual average temperature was 23.6±1.6℃, and the mean relative humidity was 35.1±15.2%. The cabinets used in this study were the two-open and four-closed types. Conclusion: This study confirmed the validity of the expiration date in a hospital environment. Based on the results, the nonwoven fabric remained sterile for more than nine months. No case of contamination of the paper-plastic pouch packaging was observed, owing to the microbial culture for two months.