Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What is saturated steam?

1. Steam that is cooler than boiling point

2. Steam at the boiling point under specific pressure

3. Steam that forms from cold water

4. Steam used for cleaning

The correct answer is: Steam at the boiling point under specific pressure

Saturated steam is defined as steam that exists in equilibrium with its liquid water at a specific temperature and pressure, meaning it is at the boiling point for that pressure. When water is heated to its boiling point, it begins to change into steam, and when this steam is allowed to exist at that temperature and pressure, it is referred to as saturated steam. This state is critical in processes such as sterilization, where the properties of saturated steam are utilized to achieve effective microbial kill rates. Understanding saturated steam is vital in medical device reprocessing because it ensures that the necessary temperature and pressure are maintained to effectively sterilize instruments. It operates at boiling point under its specific pressure, which aids in controlling and maintaining the conditions needed for reliable results during the sterilization cycle.