MODULE 3.13 - STERILIZATION INDICATORS

Question 1

Chemical indicators indicate sterility. True or False?

Answer 1

False - only certain conditions for sterility

Question 2

The indicators are placed in the ?

Answer 2

Center of each pack and on the outside of the item to be sterilized

Question 3

The observable change generally involves what processes?

Answer 3

• Melting of a chemical substance
• Chemical reaction resulting in a color change

Question 4

Chemical indicators should be used externally and internally for each item processed. True or False?

Answer 4

True

Question 5

Identify this type of indicator:

• Integrated instruments that measure and record physical parameters of the sterilization cycle, such as temperature, pressure and exposure time.

Answer 5

Physical indicator

Question 6

Identify this type of indicator:

• Generally consist of paper strips or tape impregnated with a material that changes color when a certain temperature is reached
• Responds to conditions such as extreme heat, pressure, or humidity but the response does not reflect exposure duration
• Do not indicate sterility as it does not reflect the duration of exposure

Answer 6

Chemical indicator

Question 7

Identify this type of indicator:

• Surest way to determine sterility
• Uses highly resistant, non-pathogenic spore-forming bacteria contained in a vial or strip (e.g. Bacillus stearothermophilus for steam Bacillus subtilis for gas)
• Growth of organism post-sterilization indicates inadequate sterilization

Answer 7

Biological