Sterilization Methods & Monitoring Flashcards
6 cards from real IAHCSMM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Sterilization Methods & Monitoring flashcards as text
What is the standard steam sterilization cycle temperature and minimum exposure time for wrapped instruments at prevacuum?
Answer: 134°C (273°F) for 4 minutes
AAMI ST79 recommends 134°C for 4 minutes as the standard prevacuum (dynamic air removal) cycle for wrapped loads.
What is the primary advantage of ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization over steam sterilization?
Answer: Ability to sterilize heat- and moisture-sensitive devices
EO operates at low temperatures and low humidity, making it suitable for heat- and moisture-sensitive instruments that cannot withstand steam.
Which biological indicator (BI) organism is used to test the efficacy of steam sterilization?
Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus (G. stearothermophilus)
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are highly resistant to moist heat and are the standard BI for steam sterilization monitoring.
A Bowie-Dick test is performed to verify:
Answer: Adequate air removal in prevacuum steam sterilizers
The Bowie-Dick test (or air removal test) detects residual air pockets that prevent steam penetration in dynamic air-removal sterilizers.
How long should a positive biological indicator result be investigated before releasing a recalled load?
Answer: The load should be recalled immediately upon any positive BI result
A positive BI result requires immediate load recall and investigation per AAMI ST79 protocols to ensure patient safety.
What is the minimum aeration time required for EO-sterilized items at room temperature (ambient aeration)?
Answer: 7 days
EO ambient aeration at room temperature requires 7 days to allow residual gas to off-gas to safe levels for patient contact.