Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What is the correct temperature, pressure, and duration for most sterilization cycles in a pre-vacuum sterilizer?

1. 121 Celsius, 15 psi, for 10 minutes

2. 132 Celsius, 27 psi, for 4 minutes

3. 135 Celsius, 25 psi, for 5 minutes

4. 128 Celsius, 30 psi, for 6 minutes

The correct answer is: 132 Celsius, 27 psi, for 4 minutes

For most sterilization cycles in a pre-vacuum sterilizer, the correct parameters are typically 132 degrees Celsius, at approximately 27 psi, for a duration of 4 minutes. This standard is used for sterilizing heat and moisture-stable medical devices and is effective in achieving sterilization by ensuring that the steam penetrates the materials and eliminates bacterial spores. The combination of temperature and pressure is crucial, as higher temperatures allow for shorter exposure times, making the sterilization process more efficient. The pre-vacuum sterilizer operates by first removing air from the chamber, which is critical for effective steam sterilization. The specific time of 4 minutes at this temperature and pressure ensures that all items being sterilized reach the necessary temperature throughout their entirety, providing a high level of safety against microbial contamination. This answer reflects best practices and standards established in sterilization protocols for the healthcare setting, which are aligned with guidelines from various health and safety organizations. Understanding these parameters helps in the effective and safe reprocessing of medical devices, ultimately contributing to patient safety.