Low Temperature Sterilization Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the role of the plasma phase in the hydrogen peroxide sterilization process?

To break down vaporized H2O2 into active compounds (correct)

To eliminate residual moisture

To cool the sterilization chamber

To produce steam for sterilization

Which of the following systems utilizes a vacuum method for hydrogen peroxide sterilization?

V-PRO System (correct)

PlasmaWave Device

STERRAD System

Human Meditek System

What must be done if liquid or powder-like substances are observed on medical devices after the sterilization cycle?

Proceed with normal operation

Repeat the sterilization cycle immediately

Notify the manufacturer of the device

Use appropriate personal protective equipment (correct)

Which critical process variable must be monitored during hydrogen peroxide sterilization to ensure safety?

Internal conditions of the sterilization chamber Signup and view all the answers

Which materials are not compatible with low temperature sterilization using Hydrogen Peroxide?

Powders, liquids, and cellulose-based materials Signup and view all the answers

What is a key indicator used to assure sterility in the hydrogen peroxide sterilization process?

Chemical indicators, both internal and external Signup and view all the answers

During which phase is vaporized H2O2 introduced into the sterilization chamber?

Injection phase Signup and view all the answers

What happens if medical devices placed into the sterilizer are not completely dry?

The sterilization cycle could abort. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the handling of medical devices before sterilization?

Devices must be dry before the sterilization cycle begins Signup and view all the answers

Which phase involves the evacuation of air and other gases from the sterilization chamber?

Vacuum phase Signup and view all the answers

In terms of packaging for low temperature sterilization, which of the following is NOT allowed?

Towels and cloth materials Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of HEPA-filtered air during the Vent phase?

It restores the chamber to atmospheric pressure Signup and view all the answers

What precaution must be taken when using lumen devices in hydrogen peroxide sterilization?

Check lumen length and diameter for boosters Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the barcoding system on solution cassettes used in hydrogen peroxide sterilization?

To ensure the solution has not expired Signup and view all the answers

During which phase of low temperature sterilization is liquid Hydrogen Peroxide injected into the chamber?

Charge phase Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common monitoring method for ensuring sterility assurance during hydrogen peroxide sterilization?

Biological indicator monitoring Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of the plasma state formed during low-temperature sterilization using hydrogen peroxide?

It is created when gas is energized to strip electrons from atoms. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the action of vaporized hydrogen peroxide in the sterilization process?

It effectively kills microorganisms by contacting all surfaces. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant advantage of hydrogen peroxide sterilization compared to ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization?

It requires less time and has no long aeration time. Signup and view all the answers

How is safety ensured during the sterilization process using hydrogen peroxide?

Proper ventilation and monitoring of concentration levels are necessary. Signup and view all the answers

Which sterilization technique transforms vaporized H2O2 into plasma state for microorganism elimination?

Gas-Plasma sterilization. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial monitoring requirement for ensuring sterility in low-temperature sterilization?

Utilization of biological indicators and chemical indicators is essential. Signup and view all the answers

In low-temperature sterilization using hydrogen peroxide, which item is an appropriate choice for sterilization?

Small diameter endoscopes. Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism ensures there is no residual hydrogen peroxide after completion of the sterilization cycle?

Conversion of hydrogen peroxide vapor into plasma during the cycle. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Limitations of Low-Temperature Sterilization Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Materials compatibility is limited; only specific validated devices can be sterilized.
Powders, liquids, or cellulose-based materials cannot be processed.
Some manufacturers impose lumen restrictions; verify before purchase.
Dead-end lumens are prohibited from being sterilized.
Booster aids may be necessary for specific lumen lengths and diameters, depending on the sterilizer.
All medical devices must be completely dry before sterilization to avoid cycle abort.
Vacuum-sensitive devices are not permitted.

Packaging Requirements

Only validated containers, pouches, or polypropylene wrappers are allowed.
No cellulose materials like cloth, towels, paper, or cotton should be used.
Paper labels are not permitted.

Hydrogen Peroxide Considerations

Hydrogen peroxide solutions are process-specific, with variations in container types, concentrations, and amounts for different technologies.
Expiration is monitored through barcoded solution cassettes or disposable containers.

Sterilization Phases

Charge Phase: Chamber is evacuated to remove air and create low pressure.
Injection Phase: Liquid hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is injected, and water is removed until 90% concentration is achieved.
Diffusion Phase: Vaporized H2O2 is introduced and diffuses throughout the sterilization area.
Plasma Phase: An electromagnetic field activates the H2O2 vapor into a low-temperature plasma, generating free radicals for sterilization.
These three phases (Injection, Diffusion, Plasma) are repeated to enhance efficacy.
Vent Phase: HEPA-filtered air is introduced to return chamber pressure to atmospheric levels.

Critical Process Variables

Key variables for effective sterilization include hydrogen peroxide concentration and temperature.
Plasma is used in Sterrad systems; vacuum removal is utilized by Human Meditek.
The V-PRO system operates under vacuum conditions to ensure efficient hydrogen peroxide removal.

Sterilization Safety

Internal conditions are actively monitored, and the cycle will abort if issues arise.
Devices must be dry to prevent contamination.
If liquids or powders are noted post-cycle, proper PPE should be utilized.
PPE is mandatory for all cancelled cycles.
Follow sterilizer manufacturer's instructions for preparation, loading, and operation.

Assurance and Monitoring

Biological indicators and chemical indicators (internal and external) validate sterility.
Sterilizer displays and cycle printouts are crucial for monitoring process effectiveness.

Overview of Hydrogen Peroxide as a Sterilant

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a potent oxidant, effective against a broad range of microorganisms, including resistant spores.
This low-temperature method is suitable for temperature-sensitive items, offering quicker Sterilization compared to ethylene oxide (EtO).
The process does not require extensive aeration, allowing for immediate use post-sterilization.
Vaporized H2O2 contacts all surfaces of devices, ensuring thorough sterilization.
Certain systems convert H2O2 vapor into plasma, eliminating residual chemicals from the devices.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the limitations of low temperature sterilization using hydrogen peroxide. This quiz highlights material compatibility issues, restrictions on device types, and other essential guidelines for effective sterilization practices. Ensure you understand the implications of these limitations in medical settings.