Sterilization of Instruments

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Why is it important to critically inspect each instrument after cleaning?

To confirm the manufacturer's instructions

To ensure proper packaging

To verify sterility before autoclaving

To check for residual debris or damage (correct)

What are sterilization pouches best used for?

To allow visual inspection of contents

For packaging loose instruments (correct)

For things to look clean

To protect against physical damage

Why is it recommended to include a chemical indicator inside each sterilization pouch?

To verify that the sterilant reached the inside of the package (correct)

To increase the pressure inside the pouch during autoclaving

To speed up the sterilization process

To prevent instruments from moving during autoclaving

Why should two layers of wrap be used when packaging surgical kits?

For sterility maintenance per industry standards Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using sterilization indicator tape when securing the wrapper?

To indicate that the pack has been through autoclaving Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended minimum cooling time for items inside the sterilizer before removing them?

10 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to visually inspect each item after the sterilization cycle?

To prevent using items with compromised packaging or appearance of wetness Signup and view all the answers

Where should chemical indicators be placed to verify that all packages have been processed in the autoclave?

Inside and outside of all packages Signup and view all the answers

What are physical indicators in sterilization cycles used for?

To detect exposure to heat and pressure Signup and view all the answers

When should the readings from time, temperature, and pressure gauges be recorded?

At the end of each sterilization cycle Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if an item fails inspection after a sterilization cycle?

Reprocess the item after changing the chemical indicator and rewrapping Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum temperature boiling water can reach?

212 degrees F Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to pre-clean medical devices with a detergent or enzymatic cleaner?

To prevent the materials from drying on the instruments Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of rinsing instruments in cool water after cleaning?

To prevent coagulation of blood on the instruments Signup and view all the answers

When cleaning an autoclave, what should be done with the external surfaces and components of the instruments?

Clean them until there isn't any visible debris Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to dry the exterior surfaces of each instrument after rinsing?

To prevent rusting of the instruments Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an autoclave in sterilizing instruments?

To utilize steam under pressure to achieve high temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Which method of sterilization is most widely used in medical offices?

Steam sterilization Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes critical items that require sterilization?

They must be sterile as they enter sterile tissue or the vascular system Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if critical items are not properly sterilized before use?

They could transmit disease through microbial contamination Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes contamination?

The act of exposing sterile areas to pathogenic substances Signup and view all the answers

What best defines surgical asepsis based on the text?

Procedures that render objects sterile to maintain aseptic conditions during surgery Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using an autoclave in sterilization processes?

To achieve higher temperatures than boiling using steam under pressure Signup and view all the answers

Why is ethylene oxide (EO) properly vented during gas sterilization?

For the safety of healthcare workers Signup and view all the answers

Why is dry heat sterilization rarely used nowadays?

It requires higher temperatures and longer exposure times than steam sterilization Signup and view all the answers

When is chemical ('Cold') sterilization often used?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

According to the CDC, how does liquid sterilant compare to steam, gas, or dry heat sterilization?

It is considered high-level disinfection, not at the same sterility level as other methods Signup and view all the answers

Why is steam sterilization recommended as the preferred method?

It provides higher levels of sterility compared to other methods Signup and view all the answers

What makes an autoclave similar to a pressure cooker?

Both employ pressurized steam to reach high temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Why is gas sterilization considered ideal for heat- or moisture-sensitive equipment?

Because it can effectively destroy organisms without heat or moisture damage Signup and view all the answers

What should be done before packaging instruments for sterilization?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

How should items with concave surfaces or broad flat surfaces be positioned in the autoclave?

On their edge to allow surfaces to drain water Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of standing a paper-plastic pouch on its edge in the autoclave?

For proper sterilant penetration and drainage Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to avoid overloading the sterilizer and trays?

To prevent damage to delicate items Signup and view all the answers

When using an autoclave, what should be done after positioning instruments for sterilization?

Select the appropriate preprogrammed cycle on the sterilizer Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with heavy items when arranging items in the autoclave?

Arrange them so they won't damage delicate items Signup and view all the answers