Question

When a new sterilizer comes in or relocated, how many consecutive biologicals should be run in an empty sterilizer?

1) 1
2) 2
3) 3
4) 4

Answer 1

When bringing in or relocating a new sterilizer, you need to run three consecutive biological tests to ensure its effectiveness before it is put into regular use with medical instruments or supplies.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a new sterilizer is introduced or relocated, it is recommended to run three consecutive biological indicator tests in an empty sterilizer to ensure it is functioning properly. This protocol helps to verify that the sterilizer is effectively killing microorganisms and maintaining the required conditions for sterilization before it is used for actual medical instruments or supplies. Testing with biological indicators involves using preparations that contain viable microorganisms which have a high resistance to the particular mode of sterilization being tested. Only after three consecutive biological tests show successful sterilization, confirming the efficacy of the equipment, can the sterilizer be put into routine use.