Instrument Care Flashcards
what are the two categories of sterilization?
physical
chemical
what is one physical type of sterilization?
steam
what are some chemical types of sterilization?
ethylene oxide
hydrogen peroxide
aldehydes
what is the mechanism of action of steam sterilization?
denaturation of enzymes/critical proteins
what are the four factors that can affect your steam sterilization efficacy?
exposure time
temperature
moisture
pressure
what is the mechanism of action of ethylene oxide sterilization?
alkylation of proteins and nucleic acids
what is ethylene oxide useful for?
moisture and heat sensitive items
what are the disadvantages of ethylene oxide?
flammable
toxic to tissues: significant aeration time required
health and environmental concerns
what is the mechanism of action of hydrogen peroxide/plasma for sterilization?
destructive products: affect cellular processes
what are aldehydes useful for for sterilization?
endoscopes
what is hydrogen peroxide/liquid useful for?
endoscopes
what is the mechanism of action of hydrogen peroxide/liquid for sterilization?
produces destructive hydroxyl radicals
