Final answer:
The recommended sterilization method for a reusable hand piece is autoclave sterilization, which employs moist heat to ensure complete sterility. Wiping with disinfectants or ethanol is not sufficient for complete sterilization, while UV light is less effective for tools with complex designs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The appropriate method for sterilizing a reusable hand piece is autoclave sterilization. An autoclave uses moist heat to penetrate and destroy all microorganisms on surgical tools, making it the most effective method for items requiring complete sterilization. Wiping with a disinfectant or ethanol, while useful for cleaning, does not achieve the same level of sterility as autoclaving. UV light can reduce microbial load but is not as effective for tools with complex surfaces. It's important that all reusable instruments in a medical setting are properly sterilized to prevent the risk of infection.
The efficacy of chemical disinfectants has historically been compared to that of phenol. However, the healthcare environment typically requires sterilants that are more potent and reliable than phenol. Autoclaving is the preferred method for tools that can withstand high temperatures and pressure, ensuring all microbial life is eradicated and tools are safe for reuse on patients.
Answering another related question, suitable for use on tissues for microbial control to prevent infection is an antiseptic, which is specifically designed to be non-toxic and safe for use on living tissues, unlike disinfectants.