Low-Temperature Sterilization Flashcards

Flashcards about low-temperature sterilization methods, including Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP), Ethylene Oxide (EO), and Hydrogen Peroxide gas plasma.

Why are cellulose-containing materials (e.g., paper) incompatible with H₂O₂ sterilization?

Materials that absorb H₂O₂ and prevent its diffusion are incompatible with Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) sterilization.

What biological indicator is used for monitoring Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) sterilization?

Geobacillus Stearothermophilus spore.

How is Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) generated?

Heating H₂O₂ and introducing it into the sterilizer chamber.

What are the four phases of a Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) sterilization cycle?

Conditioning, Leak Test, Sterilization, and Aeration.

What is the purpose of the conditioning phase in VHP sterilization?

To remove air and excess moisture from the chamber and packaging.

What is the purpose of the leak test phase in VHP sterilization?

To ensure the chamber is leak-tight.

What are the primary methods employed in low-temperature sterilization for heat and moisture-sensitive medical devices?

Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) and Ethylene Oxide (EO).

How does Ethylene Oxide (EO) sterilize?

Alkylation.

How does Hydrogen Peroxide sterilize?

Oxidation.

What are the five phases of an Ethylene Oxide (EO) sterilization cycle?

Preconditioning and Humidification, Gas Introduction, Exposure, Evacuation, and Air Washes.

What is the purpose of the preconditioning and humidification phase in EO sterilization?

To prepare the items for sterilization by adjusting temperature and humidity.

How is Ethylene Oxide (EO) classified by OSHA?

Toxic, a carcinogen, and a reproductive hazard.

How well-ventilated should EO sterilizer rooms be?

At least 10 air changes per hour.

Name some compatible packaging materials for EO sterilization.

Paper/plastic or Tyvek peel pouches, approved fabric wrappers, medical crepe paper, polypropylene, and most container systems.

Name some NON-compatible packaging materials for EO sterilization.

Liquids, devices with energy sources, leather items, aluminum foil, cellophane, nylon films, polyester, PVC (plastic) films, and Styrofoam.

What biological indicator is required for each EO cycle?

Bacillus Atrophaeus spore.

What are the non-toxic byproducts of Hydrogen Peroxide gas plasma sterilization?

Water vapor and oxygen.

How does H₂O2 gas plasma kill microorganisms?

Oxidation.

What are the five phases of a Hydrogen Peroxide gas plasma sterilization cycle?

Vacuum, Injection, Diffusion, Plasma, and Vent.

Name some compatible packaging materials for Hydrogen Peroxide gas plasma sterilization.

Approved containers, polypropylene wrap, and Tyvek pouches.

Name some NON-compatible materials for Hydrogen Peroxide gas plasma sterilization.

Liquids, powder, and linen.

What is oxidation?

A chemical process where a molecule reacts with oxygen, leading to the loss of electrons.

What is alkylation?

A chemical reaction that involves the addition of alkyl groups to organic molecules, often disrupting their normal function.

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