NIC Esthetician Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
A new esthetician is setting up their station and is unsure about the proper use of an autoclave for sterilizing tools. Which of the following statements correctly describes the function and necessary conditions for effective sterilization using an autoclave?
- AAn autoclave sanitizes tools with UV light, requiring tools to be damp to facilitate germicidal action.
- BAn autoclave cleans tools by ultrasonic vibration, and tools can be placed directly from use into the unit.
- CAn autoclave disinfects tools using dry heat, and tools should be unwrapped for proper air circulation.
- DAn autoclave sterilizes tools by using steam under pressure, and tools must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before processing.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. An autoclave sterilizes tools by using steam under pressure, and tools must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before processing.
Autoclaves use moist heat (steam under pressure) to achieve sterilization, which kills all microbial life, including spores. For effective sterilization, tools must be meticulously cleaned to remove all debris and then completely dried before being placed in the autoclave.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. UV light sanitizers are different devices and do not sterilize. Tools should be dry for UV units.
- B. Ultrasonic cleaners are for cleaning, not sterilization. Tools must be cleaned and dried before sterilization in an autoclave.
- C. Autoclaves use moist heat (steam), not dry heat. Tools are typically wrapped to maintain sterility post-autoclave.
Autoclave Sterilization
A process that uses steam under pressure to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores, on reusable tools and equipment.
- Achieves the highest level of decontamination: sterilization.
- Requires tools to be thoroughly cleaned and dried beforehand.
- Tools are often wrapped or pouched to maintain sterility after processing.
- Regular monitoring and spore testing are essential to confirm effectiveness.
Memory trick: Autoclave's steam under pressure makes all germs flee, for sterility's guarantee.