Dental Instrument Sterilization Flashcards

Which sterilization method uses unsaturated chemical vapor at 270°F and 20 psi for instruments that may corrode in steam?

Answer: Unsaturated chemical vapor sterilization

Unsaturated chemical vapor sterilization operates at 270°F and 20 psi using a chemical solution instead of water, reducing corrosion on carbon steel instruments.

What is the minimum exposure time for unwrapped instruments in a gravity displacement steam autoclave at 250°F (121°C)?

Answer: 30 minutes

Unwrapped instruments at 250°F in a gravity displacement autoclave require 30 minutes because it removes air pockets less efficiently than prevacuum types.

Which biological indicator organism is used to verify the efficacy of steam sterilization in dental settings?

Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the gold standard for steam sterilization verification because they are highly resistant to moist heat.

During instrument reprocessing, at what stage should instruments be inspected for remaining debris or damage?

Answer: After cleaning but before packaging

Instruments should be inspected after cleaning but before packaging to identify remaining bioburden or damage before the sterilization cycle.

What does a Class 5 integrating indicator verify during a sterilization cycle?

Answer: That all critical parameters of sterilization were met

Class 5 integrating indicators respond to all critical sterilization parameters (time, temperature, steam presence) and correlate with biological indicator results.

Which cleaning method is recommended by the CDC for reusable dental instruments before sterilization?

Answer: Mechanical cleaning using an ultrasonic cleaner or instrument washer

The CDC recommends mechanical cleaning over manual scrubbing because it is more efficient, consistent, and reduces sharps injury risk.