Tobias Ch 10 - Sterilization Flashcards
What is the definition of sterilization?
The process of destroying all microorganisms (including bacteria, viruses, spores, fungi, and prions) on or in an object.
What does SAL stand for in sterilization?
Sterility assurance level
What are the three categories of disinfectants?
- High-level disinfectants
- Intermediate-level disinfectants
- Low-level disinfectants
What are critical items in sterilization?
Items associated with a high risk for infection if contaminated, such as surgical instruments and catheters.
What are semicritical items in sterilization?
Items that come in contact with mucous membranes or nonintact skin, such as endotracheal tubes and laryngoscopes.
What are noncritical items in sterilization?
Items that contact only intact skin, such as stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs.
What is the preferred method for cleaning delicate surgical instruments?
Manual cleaning
What is the purpose of using enzymatic cleaners in manual cleaning?
To help loosen blood, tissue, and gross debris.
What is TASS?
Toxic anterior segment syndrome, a severe inflammatory process in the anterior chamber following ophthalmic procedures.
What is the advantage of mechanical cleaning of surgical instruments?
Facilitates washing and rinsing without the risks of manual cleaning and efficiently removes soil and debris.
What is the process used by ultrasonic cleaning devices?
Cavitation, creating minute gas bubbles that implode to remove particles and debris.
What materials are commonly used for steam sterilization wrapping?
- Cotton muslin (140-270 count)
- Pima cotton
- Nonwoven paper material
- Paper-plastic pouches
- Reusable woven textiles
- Nonwoven polypropylene fabric
- Plastic pouches
- Polyethylene/Mylar, poly coated paper and uncoated paper (ethylene)
What is cold sterilization?
The process of soaking instruments in a disinfectant to achieve acceptable reductions in microbial presence.
What is glutaraldehyde commonly used for?
As a chemical disinfectant with reasonable efficacy against bacterial spores.
- Shelf live 14 days ( new - 28-30 d)
- irritant to skin , mm , and decrease pulmonary function
What is the typical exposure time and temperature for steam sterilization in gravity-displacement sterilizers?
121°C (250°F) for 30 minutes.
What is flash sterilization?
The process of rapidly sterilizing items needed for immediate use, typically at higher temperatures and shorter time cycles.
275 f ( 135* C) for 3 min and 1 min drying
What is the danger associated with ethylene oxide?
It is toxic and has carcinogenic, mutagenic, and neurologic hazards.
What is ozone sterilization?
A technique that uses ozone ( from O2 and H2O - O3) to oxidize and destroy microorganisms.
What is the cycle time for ozone sterilization?
Approximately 4 hours at 30°C to 35°C.
No woven or paper
What is the primary material used in plasma sterilization?
Vapor of hydrogen peroxide, oxygen, or a peracetic acid/hydrogen peroxide mixture.
Deactivate cell process/ $$$$
45-50 C for 28-75 min
What is the sterilization cycle time for vaporized hydrogen peroxide?
30 to 55 minutes.
Low temp
What is a key disadvantage of using dry heat for sterilization?
It is less effective than moist heat at a given temperature and requires higher temperatures and longer times.
Fill in the blank: The minimum effective concentration for high-level disinfection of glutaraldehyde is _______.
1.0% to 1.5%
True or False: Immediate-use steam sterilization (flash) is recommended for implants.
False
What is Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide used for?
Low-temperature sterilization method for heat- and moisture-sensitive items
It is safe for the environment and requires no aeration due to the absence of toxic residues.
What is the cycle time for Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide sterilization?
30 to 55 minutes
This rapid cycle time makes it efficient for sterilization processes.
What types of items can Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide not be used for?
Liquids, linens, powders, or cellulose materials
Its application is limited to certain materials due to its chemical properties.
What are the main uses of Ionizing radiation in sterilization?
Sterilization of surgical items using cobalt 60 gamma rays or electron accelerators
This method is typically used in manufacturing entities.
What are some concerns associated with ionizing radiation sterilization?
Oxidative damage to polyethylene implants and potential weakening of bone grafts
Certain pharmaceuticals may also be damaged during this process.
Name two sterilization methods that are not approved or recommended by the FDA.
- Performic acid
- Microwave radiation
- High-temperature bead sterilizers
- Formaldehyde steam
These methods may pose risks or lack sufficient evidence of efficacy.
What challenges do endoscopes present for cleaning and sterilization?
Small lumens that are difficult to reach and delicate mechanisms that could be damaged
These factors complicate the sterilization process.
What are the types of sterilization indicators?
- Physical monitors
- Chemical indicators
- Biological indicators
Each type monitors different parameters of the sterilization process.
What does a Class 1 chemical indicator signify?
Indicates that a surgical pack has been processed but provides limited information
Examples include sterilization tape on the outside of the pack.
What specific parameter does a Class 2 indicator test for?
Air removal
Known as Bowie-Dick tests, these indicators are crucial for steam sterilization.
What organism is used for testing steam sterilization effectiveness?
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores
This organism is commonly used in steam, plasma and ozone
sterilization testing.
—
Bacillus atrophaeus spore for ethylene oxide
What are the recommended storage conditions for sterilized materials?
Controlled airflow, humidity ( no > 70%) temperature ( no >75 F ) and exposure to the environment
Ideal conditions include being dry and out of direct sunlight.
How long can small instruments be stored after autoclaving when packaged properly?
At least 96 weeks
This applies when they are stored in double-layered linen or plastic-paper envelopes.
What is the storage duration for ethylene oxide gas sterilized cloth wrapping materials?
15 to 30 days with cloth
30-60 d with paper
90-100 d plastic wrap
1 year heated plastic wrap
What is the storage duration for heat-sealed plastic wrapping materials?
1 year
This indicates longer efficacy compared to other wrapping materials.
