Final answer:
The package to properly prepare instruments for sterilization in the autoclave includes various equipment and glassware. Autoclaves rely on moist-heat sterilization to achieve the desired temperature and pressure, killing endospores. Quality control measures include recorders and internal indicators.
Step-by-step explanation:
The package to properly prepare instruments for sterilization in the autoclave includes microscopes, immersion oil, Bunsen burners or sterilizers, inoculating loops and needles, metal forceps, pipette pumps, incubators set for body temperature and room temperature incubation, a biohazard disposal container(s), an autoclave, a refrigerator, and other equipment/glassware like micropipettes, a UV spectrometer, a water bath set to 37 ºC, and a microcentrifuge.
Autoclaves rely on moist-heat sterilization to raise temperatures above the boiling point of water and are considered the most effective method of sterilization. Standard operating temperatures for autoclaves are typically 121 °C or 132 °C, at a pressure of 15 to 20 pounds per square inch (psi), for a length of exposure of at least 20 minutes. The steam must directly contact the materials being sterilized, so containers are loosely closed and instruments are loosely wrapped.
To ensure proper sterilization, autoclaves may be equipped with recorders and internal indicators. Heat-sensitive autoclave tape can indicate when the appropriate temperature has been reached, while biological indicator spore tests can determine if endospores are killed. Diack tubes containing temperature-sensitive pellets can also be used.