Steam Sterilization
The most common method of sterilization, which uses moist heat.
Autoclave
Sterilization method that uses hot air to kill microorganisms.
Dry heat
Used to assess if the internal temperature of a pack has been reached.
Temperature sensor
A type of steam sterilizer that uses steam under pressure.
Autoclave
Organization that sets standards and guidelines for sterilization practices.
AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation)
The two main types of steam sterilizers.
Gravity displacement and dynamic air removal
The primary use of dry heat sterilization.
Sterilization of materials that cannot be sterilized with steam
Monitors the effectiveness of the sterilization process by testing the destruction of microorganisms.
Biological indicator
A type of dry heat sterilizer that uses natural convection.
Static air sterilizer
Personal protective equipment (PPE) that should be worn when handling hot items from a sterilizer.
Heat-resistant gloves
The three critical parameters of steam sterilization.
Time, temperature, and pressure
The two types of dry heat sterilizers.
Static air and forced air
Provides a visual indication that a package has been exposed to the sterilization process.
Chemical indicators
A steam sterilizer that removes air from the chamber using a vacuum.
Prevacuum sterilizer
Prevacuum sterilizer
To ensure effective sterilization and prevent accidents
The type of steam required for effective sterilization.
Saturated steam
Compared to steam sterilization, dry heat sterilization requires this.
Longer exposure time and higher temperatures
Monitoring device that provides a written record of sterilization cycle conditions.
Sterilizer recording chart
A type of dry heat sterilizer that uses a fan to circulate hot air.
Forced air sterilizer
Agency that regulates workplace safety, including exposure to high temperatures.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
The biological indicator used to monitor steam sterilization.
Geobacillus stearothermophilus
The type of items that can be sterilized by dry heat.
Glassware, oils, and powders
How often should biological testing be performed?
At least weekly, preferably daily
A type of steam sterilizer used for sterilizing liquids.
Steam sterilizer with liquid cycle
What should be done if a sterilizer malfunctions.
Take the sterilizer out of service and have it inspected and repaired