Sterilization Techniques and Applications Quiz

The process of killing all living microorganisms, including spores.

Antimicrobial agents applied to non-living surfaces to kill or reduce the number of harmful microorganisms.

Antimicrobial agents used on living tissues (like skin) to reduce the risk of infection.

A sterilization method using chemicals to eliminate microbes.

Chemicals used to sterilize objects by immersion, usually used for heat-sensitive instruments.

Chemicals that kill a wide range of microbes, including spores, after prolonged exposure.

Chemicals that kill a smaller range of microbes, less effective against spores.

A method of sterilization using heated chemicals under pressure, typically used for heat-sensitive instruments.

A type of sterilization using high heat and pressure to kill all microorganisms, including spores. Common for medical instruments.

The process of destroying bacteria by burning them at high temperatures.

Gram Staining is a method of classifying bacteria based on their cell wall structure.

A specific stain used to identify bacteria that have a waxy cell wall, like those causing tuberculosis.

A technique that uses special lenses to visualize bacteria and their movement.

A culture medium used to grow bacteria and identify them by their growth patterns.

A test to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other Staphylococcus species based on the enzyme coagulase.

A method of sterilization using pressurized steam at high temperatures, typically 121°C (250°F) for 15–20 minutes. Effective for sterilizing media, lab instruments, surgical tools, and biohazard waste.

Involves heating materials to high temperatures, usually around 160–180°C (320–356°F) for 1–2 hours in a dry heat oven. Suitable for sterilizing metal instruments, glassware, and powders. Works by oxidizing microbial cells, effectively killing them without moisture.

Removes microorganisms from liquids or air by passing them through a filter with pore sizes small enough (typically 0.2 microns) to trap microbes. Used for heat-sensitive liquids, such as vaccines or enzyme solutions, and in HEPA filters for air sterilization. Effective for removing bacteria and larger viruses but may not retain smaller viruses or prions.

Involves gamma rays or electron beams to sterilize materials by breaking down DNA in microorganisms. Used for sterilizing medical equipment, disposable plastics, and some pharmaceuticals. Penetrates deeply and is effective even for heat-sensitive materials.

Uses UV-C light (wavelength around 254 nm) to damage the DNA of microorganisms, preventing their replication. Commonly used to sterilize air, water, and surfaces in healthcare and lab settings. Limited penetration depth, effective only for surfaces or thin layers of water or air.

Boiling water (100°C or 212°F) for 10–15 minutes can kill most bacteria and viruses but may not be effective against all spores. Often used as a basic disinfection method rather than true sterilization. Useful for sterilizing certain household items, baby bottles, and non-heat-sensitive items in emergencies.

Destroys contaminated materials by burning them at very high temperatures.

Automated machines used to count blood cells and measure specific parameters including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit.

A microscopic examination of blood samples to study cell morphology. It's crucial for diagnosing infections like malaria and conditions involving cells like leukemia or anemia.

Test that measures hemoglobin concentration and the portion of blood composed of red blood cells (RBCs). Low values suggest anemia, while high levels may indicate polycythemia.

Tests like Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) evaluate blood clotting ability. These are essential for diagnosing bleeding disorders and monitoring anticoagulant treatments.

A technique analyzing blood cell populations by tagging cells with fluorescent antibodies, which are then detected with a laser beam. Flow Cytometry is used to diagnose hematologic cancers like leukemia and lymphomas, as well as monitor immune function.

A procedure where bone marrow is sampled via biopsy or aspiration to assess blood cell production. This is crucial in diagnosing hematologic cancers, anemias, and bone marrow disorders.

This branch of clinical laboratory medicine analyzes the chemical composition of blood and other body fluids, providing information about organ function, metabolic status and the presence of diseases.

A technique that measures the absorbance of light by substances in blood, such as glucose, cholesterol, and proteins. Color changes are analyzed, which correlate with concentration levels.

A laboratory technique used to separate compounds in a mixture based on their different rates of movement through a stationary phase, such as a solid absorbent (HPLC) or a gas (GC). It is useful for identifying and quantifying different substances, particularly in drug testing, toxicology, and monitoring therapeutic drug levels.

A chromatography technique used to separate and identify volatile compounds in a mixture by passing them through a heated column filled with a stationary phase. Commonly used in drug testing and environmental analysis.

A chromatography technique used to separate and identify components in a liquid mixture by passing them through a column packed with a stationary phase, then detected by a detector. This technique can be applied to various applications like drug testing, environmental analysis, and food chemistry.

A laboratory method used to separate and identify proteins based on their electrical charge and size. This technique is crucial in protein analysis, particularly in detecting abnormalities in protein levels or patterns, as seen in multiple myeloma and other blood disorders.

Automated instruments used in laboratories to measure various biochemical markers in a high-throughput and rapid manner. Common applications include measuring glucose, lipids, liver enzymes, and kidney function markers, enabling efficient and fast diagnostics.