Aseptic Techniques & Infection Control Flashcards

Which organism is used in biological indicators to monitor steam sterilization cycles?

Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores resist moist heat strongly, so they are the standard challenge organism for steam sterilizers.

What is the main purpose of the Bowie-Dick test run in a prevacuum steam sterilizer?

Answer: To check air removal and steam penetration

The Bowie-Dick test detects residual air pockets that would block steam penetration in dynamic air-removal sterilizers.

A strip of autoclave tape on a wrapped ophthalmic tray has changed color. What does this confirm?

Answer: The tray was exposed to a sterilization process

External process indicators only show that the package went through a cycle, not that sterility was achieved.

Which sterilization method is best suited to heat- and moisture-sensitive ophthalmic instruments but needs a long aeration period afterward?

Answer: Ethylene oxide gas

Ethylene oxide works at low temperatures but leaves toxic residues, so items need prolonged aeration before use.

Which packaging material should NOT be used in a hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilizer?

Answer: Cellulose-based paper or linen

Cellulose absorbs hydrogen peroxide and can cause the cycle to abort or fail.

According to AAMI/AORN guidance, when is immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS) appropriate?

Answer: Only when there is an urgent need and no time for terminal processing

IUSS is meant for urgent situations, not for convenience or to make up for too few instrument sets.

Under event-related sterility, a wrapped sterile tray stays sterile until what happens?

Answer: An event such as a tear, moisture, or a drop compromises the package

Event-related shelf life depends on how the package is handled and stored, not on elapsed time.