Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What type of sterilizer is necessary for sterilizing liquids?

1. High-speed vacuum sterilizer

2. Slow exhaust gravity sterilizer

3. Rapid steam sterilizer

4. Instantaneous sterilizer

The correct answer is: Slow exhaust gravity sterilizer

When sterilizing liquids, a slow exhaust gravity sterilizer is necessary because it provides a controlled environment that is essential for ensuring that the steam penetrates the liquid effectively. In such sterilizers, the steam is allowed to become saturated, and the gradual removal of air and condensation is crucial to achieving consistent temperatures throughout the liquid. This method reduces the risk of boiling and ensures a thorough sterilization process. While high-speed vacuum sterilizers can be effective for sterilizing solid instruments, they are not ideal for liquids due to the risk of agitation and boiling that could occur when rapid changes in pressure are applied. Similarly, rapid steam sterilizers are designed for quick cycles that are more suited for solids or sterilizing instruments rather than liquids, as they can cause turbulence. Instantaneous sterilizers, on the other hand, may not provide the thorough and consistent exposure time required for effective sterilization of liquids. Therefore, the slow exhaust gravity sterilizer is the best choice when specifically targeting liquid sterilization.