Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What are the ideal steam parameters for effective sterilization?

1. 130°C, 95% gas and 5% moisture droplets

2. 132°C, 97% gas and 3% moisture droplets

3. 134°C, 90% gas and 10% moisture droplets

4. 128°C, 92% gas and 8% moisture droplets

The correct answer is: 132°C, 97% gas and 3% moisture droplets

The ideal steam parameters for effective sterilization revolve around the specific temperature and moisture content that optimize the sterilization process. The correct choice outlines sterilization conditions of 132°C, with a high percentage of gas and minimal moisture droplets. Steam sterilization, also known as autoclaving, requires a precise combination of temperature and time to effectively kill all microorganisms, including spores. The temperature of 132°C is effective because it is well above the minimum requirement for achieving sterilization through moist heat, which operates through a combination of thermal energy and the condensation of steam that penetrates materials. Additionally, maintaining a high percentage of steam (97% gas in this case) ensures that there is sufficient moisture to facilitate the heat transfer and enhance microbial lethality. This environment not only ensures that the items being sterilized are adequately penetrated by the steam but also helps maintain the integrity of the material being sterilized. Therefore, the choice that includes 132°C with a gas composition of 97% is optimal for effective sterilization, as it balances temperature and moisture necessary to destroy pathogens reliably.