Preparation and Packaging Methods Questions and Answers Flashcards

What is the purpose of a Bowie-Dick test in steam sterilization?

Answer: To verify adequate air removal and steam penetration in prevacuum sterilizers

The Bowie-Dick test evaluates air removal capability and steam penetration performance of prevacuum sterilizers. It is run daily before the first processed load.

How should rigid sterilization containers be inspected before use?

Answer: Inspect gaskets, verify filter plates are secure, check latches, and examine the body for damage

Inspection includes gaskets for wear, filter retention plates for security, latch mechanisms for tight closure, and container body for dents or warping.

What is the minimum seal width required for heat-sealed sterilization pouches?

Answer: One inch

A minimum seal width of one inch is recommended to ensure adequate barrier integrity throughout sterilization, handling, and storage.

Why should sterilization pouches not be stacked flat on top of each other in the sterilizer?

Answer: Paper-to-plastic orientation prevents sterilant penetration and traps moisture

Stacking pouches flat creates paper-to-plastic contact that blocks sterilant penetration and traps moisture, resulting in wet packs and potential sterilization failure.

What information must be included on the label of a sterilized instrument package?

Answer: Contents, sterilizer ID, cycle number, date of sterilization, and expiration or event-related statement

Labels must include contents identification, sterilizer number, cycle number, date of sterilization, expiration date or event-related statement, and preparer identification.

What is event-related shelf life for sterile packages?

Answer: The concept that packages remain sterile until a specific event compromises packaging integrity

Event-related shelf life is the principle that properly packaged, sterilized items remain sterile indefinitely until a specific event breaches the packaging integrity.