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Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of sterilization in medical settings?
What is the primary purpose of sterilization in medical settings?
Which sterilization method has the shortest typical cycle time?
Which sterilization method has the shortest typical cycle time?
Which feature is essential for a sterilization method to be considered effective?
Which feature is essential for a sterilization method to be considered effective?
For which of the following sterilization methods is the cycle time approximately 40–60 minutes?
For which of the following sterilization methods is the cycle time approximately 40–60 minutes?
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What is a common characteristic of low temperature chemical sterilization methods?
What is a common characteristic of low temperature chemical sterilization methods?
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Study Notes
Overview of Sterilization
- Complete destruction of microorganisms, including bacterial spores.
- Essential for all reusable invasive medical devices (RMD).
Ideal Characteristics of Sterilization Methods
- Rapid throughput for efficiency.
- Easy validation to ensure effectiveness.
- Ability to process wrapped items for safe storage without contamination risk.
Common Sterilization Methods
-
Steam (Moist Heat)
- Operates at high pressure.
- Cycle time: approximately 40–60 minutes.
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Dry Heat
- Functions like an oven at normal pressure.
- Cycle time: up to 2 hours.
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Gas Plasma
- Works at ambient temperature.
- Cycle time: 45–75 minutes.
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Ethylene Oxide (EO)
- Can be performed at sub-atmospheric or high pressure.
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Low Temperature Steam and Formaldehyde Vapor
- Specific cycle time not provided; typically used for heat-sensitive items.
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Description
Explore the essential concepts of sterilization in medical practices, focusing on the complete destruction of microorganisms. This module highlights methods that ensure safe processing of reusable invasive medical devices and discusses the requirements for effective validation and storage post-sterilization.
