Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamSafety, Sanitation, and SterilizationMedium
A cosmetologist is instructed to use an autoclave for sterilizing certain implements. What is the primary method by which an autoclave achieves sterilization?
- ADry heat at extremely high temperatures.
- BChemical immersion for an extended period.
- CUltraviolet (UV) light exposure.
- DPressurized steam at high temperatures.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Pressurized steam at high temperatures.
An autoclave sterilizes by using pressurized steam at high temperatures. This method effectively kills all microbial life, including bacterial spores, making it the most reliable method for sterilization in a salon or medical setting.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Dry heat sterilization is a method, but an autoclave specifically uses moist heat (steam).
- B. Chemical immersion (cold sterilization) can achieve high-level disinfection or sterilization with prolonged exposure, but it's not the primary method of an autoclave.
- C. UV light is a method of disinfection, not sterilization, as it does not kill all microbial life, especially spores.
Autoclave Sterilization
A sterilization method that uses high-pressure saturated steam at elevated temperatures to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores.
- Most effective method for sterilization.
- Uses steam under pressure.
- Commonly used for heat-resistant, reusable implements.
Memory trick: Steam under pressure, totally clean, no more spores, what a scene!