Sterilization Methods & Monitoring Flashcards

What does a Class 5 integrating indicator measure?

Answer: All critical variables: time, temperature, and steam quality

Class 5 integrating indicators respond to all critical parameters (time, temperature, and steam) and are designed to correlate with the performance of BIs.

Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization is best suited for:

Answer: Heat-sensitive devices with compatible materials (short lumens, non-cellulose)

H2O2 gas plasma works well for heat-sensitive items but is incompatible with cellulose (paper, linen) and very long or narrow lumens.

What is the purpose of load control numbers (lot numbers) on sterilized packages?

Answer: To enable traceability and facilitate recall if a sterilization failure is identified

Load control numbers link each package to a specific sterilization cycle, enabling rapid identification and recall of items if a cycle fails.

What is 'parametric release' in sterilization?

Answer: Releasing sterilized loads based on documented physical parameters meeting all cycle requirements

Parametric release allows items to be released based on verified physical cycle data (temperature, time, pressure) meeting all specifications without waiting for BI incubation.

What sterilization method uses peracetic acid and is commonly used for heat-sensitive endoscopes?

Answer: STERIS System 1E (peracetic acid immersion)

The STERIS System 1E uses liquid peracetic acid for rapid, low-temperature sterilization of heat-sensitive immersible devices at the point of use.

Why must sterilizer printouts and cycle records be retained?

Answer: To satisfy Joint Commission and regulatory requirements and provide evidence of process control

Cycle records are legal documents required by regulatory bodies to demonstrate that sterilization processes are monitored, controlled, and effective.