IAHCSMM Chapter 16 Quiz! Exam

Ethylene oxide is a low temperature sterilant commonly used in healthcare settings. It is known for its effectiveness in killing microorganisms, but it also has a longer instrument turnaround time compared to other low temperature sterilants. This means that it takes more time for the instruments to be fully sterilized and ready for use after being treated with ethylene oxide. Therefore, the statement that ethylene oxide has the longest instrument turnaround time is true.

Ethylene oxide does not kill microorganisms by oxidation. Instead, it kills them by a process called alkylation. Alkylation involves the addition of an alkyl group to the microorganism's cellular components, which disrupts their structure and function, ultimately leading to their death.

The statement is true because all of the mentioned sterilization processes (ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, gas plasma, and ozone) involve different mechanisms and have different effects on the materials being sterilized. Therefore, it is important to monitor these processes using chemical, physical, and biological monitors to ensure that the sterilization is effective and the desired level of sterility is achieved.

Ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, and ozone sterilization cannot use the same packaging materials. Each of these sterilization methods has different requirements and interacts differently with various materials. Therefore, it is not true that they can all use the same packaging materials.

Ethylene oxide has better penetration capabilities than ozone and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma. This means that ethylene oxide is able to penetrate deeper into materials, such as fabrics or medical equipment, compared to ozone and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma. This makes ethylene oxide a more effective sterilization method as it can reach and eliminate microorganisms in hard-to-reach areas. Ozone and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma may not be able to reach these areas as effectively, making ethylene oxide the preferred choice in certain situations.

Ethylene oxide is indeed a toxic gas. It is a colorless and flammable substance that is commonly used in the production of chemicals, plastics, and sterilization of medical equipment. Exposure to ethylene oxide can cause various health issues, including respiratory problems, eye and skin irritation, and even cancer. Therefore, it is important to handle and use this gas with caution and in well-ventilated areas to minimize the risk of harmful effects.

Cellulose-containing packaging materials are not compatible with hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization because cellulose is highly reactive with hydrogen peroxide. When exposed to hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, cellulose can undergo degradation, leading to the release of harmful by-products. Therefore, it is true that cellulose-containing packaging materials should not be used with hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization.

The statement is true because the manufacturer of a device is responsible for providing accurate information about the compatibility of their product with a specific sterilization process. They have the knowledge and expertise regarding the materials used in the device and how they may react to different sterilization methods. Relying on the manufacturer's guidance ensures that the device is properly sterilized without causing any damage or compromising its functionality.

Aeration is not required for items sterilized in ozone sterilization processes. Ozone sterilization is a process that uses ozone gas to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms on surfaces and in water. Unlike other sterilization methods, ozone breaks down into oxygen after use, leaving no residue or harmful by-products. Therefore, aeration is not necessary as there is no residual ozone left on the sterilized items.

Relative humidity is indeed a required cycle parameter for ozone and ethylene oxide sterilization. Both ozone and ethylene oxide sterilization methods rely on the presence of moisture to effectively sterilize the items. The relative humidity helps to ensure that the necessary moisture levels are maintained during the sterilization process, allowing for optimal sterilization results. Therefore, the statement is true.