IAHCSMM Sterilization Methods & Monitoring

Question 1

What is the standard steam sterilization cycle temperature and minimum exposure time for wrapped instruments at prevacuum?

Accepted Answer

134°C (273°F) for 4 minutes

Answer

AAMI ST79 recommends 134°C for 4 minutes as the standard prevacuum (dynamic air removal) cycle for wrapped loads.

Question 2

What is the primary advantage of ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization over steam sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Ability to sterilize heat- and moisture-sensitive devices

Answer

EO operates at low temperatures and low humidity, making it suitable for heat- and moisture-sensitive instruments that cannot withstand steam.

Question 3

Which biological indicator (BI) organism is used to test the efficacy of steam sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus (G. stearothermophilus)

Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are highly resistant to moist heat and are the standard BI for steam sterilization monitoring.

Question 4

A Bowie-Dick test is performed to verify:

Accepted Answer

Adequate air removal in prevacuum steam sterilizers

Answer

The Bowie-Dick test (or air removal test) detects residual air pockets that prevent steam penetration in dynamic air-removal sterilizers.

Question 5

How long should a positive biological indicator result be investigated before releasing a recalled load?

Accepted Answer

The load should be recalled immediately upon any positive BI result

Answer

A positive BI result requires immediate load recall and investigation per AAMI ST79 protocols to ensure patient safety.

IAHCSMM - International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management Practice Test