The present invention provides an apparatus that inhibits microbial viability on a medical instrument. The apparatus has a sterilization chamber for receiving the medical instrument. A circulation system is fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber to circulate a fluid through the sterilization chamber. A well is provided to receive a chemistry container that includes a removable base portion. A device is provided to detach the removable base portion from the chemistry container. The device includes a mounting end that is mountable within the well such that the device extends into a lower portion of the well. An elongated intermediate section extends from the mounting end at a first angle. A free end extends from the elongated intermediate section at a second angle. The free end is dimensioned to matingly engage and apply a force to a mating feature on the chemistry container or on the removable base portion as the chemistry container is inserted into the well.
