Surgical Tech Practice Exam

Which sterilizer is known for using steam to sterilize equipment?

1. High-vacuum

2. Ethylene oxide

3. Dry heat

4. Radiation

The correct answer is: High-vacuum

The sterilizer that utilizes steam for sterilization is known as a high-vacuum sterilizer. High-vacuum sterilizers operate by creating a high-pressure environment that uses steam to effectively kill microorganisms. The high vacuum technology allows for the thorough removal of air pockets prior to the introduction of steam, ensuring that it penetrates all surfaces of the instruments, which is critical for effective sterilization. Additionally, this sterilization method is typically efficient and commonly used in surgical settings because it can sterilize a wide range of heat- and moisture-stable instruments. The steam acts as the sterilant, denaturing proteins and disrupting cellular structures of bacteria, viruses, and spores, thus achieving sterility. Other sterilization methods mentioned, like ethylene oxide and dry heat, do work but employ different mechanisms—ethylene oxide uses gas for sterilization, while dry heat relies on elevated temperatures without moisture. Radiation involves using ionizing radiation and is not dependent on steam.