Question

Monica is responsible for sterilizing instruments. She places a biological sterilization indicator into the autoclave to test the effectiveness of the sterilization process. What information is provided by the biological sterilization indicator?

a.Maximum temperature reached during the sterilization process
b.Presence of microorganisms in the items that were sterilized
c.Highest pressure reached during the sterilization process
d.The presence of spores in the autoclave

Answer 1

A biological sterilization indicator in an autoclave confirms the elimination of microorganisms, including resistant spores like those of Geobacillus stearothermophilus, indicating successful sterilization.

Step-by-step explanation:

Biological sterilization indicators, such as those placed in autoclaves, provide information on the effectiveness of the sterilization process by indicating the presence of microorganisms, particularly spores, after the process has been completed. They often contain highly resistant bacterial spores of species such as Geobacillus stearothermophilus. These spores can survive high temperatures and are used as a standard for assessing sterilization efficacy. If the spores are killed during the autoclaving process, it is a strong indication that the sterilization was successful. Therefore, the information provided by a biological sterilization indicator is the detection and confirmation of the elimination of microbial life, including highly resistant forms like spores, from the instruments that were sterilized. This ensures that the items are indeed sterile and safe to be used for medical, laboratory, or other critical applications.