Question

What are the two types of cycles in steam sterilization?

1) Pre-vacuum cycle and Gravity cycle
2) Dry cycle and Wet cycle
3) High pressure cycle and Low pressure cycle
4) Fast cycle and Slow cycle

Answer 1

Steam sterilization utilizes Pre-vacuum and Gravity cycles, with the former using a vacuum to eliminate air and the latter displacing air with steam for effective sterilization of instruments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two types of cycles used in steam sterilization are the Pre-vacuum cycle and the Gravity cycle. In the gravity displacement autoclaves, which use the Gravity cycle, steam is introduced to displace the air, which is heavier and thus sinks to the bottom and is pushed out through a vent. On the other hand, prevacuum sterilizers use the Pre-vacuum cycle, which involves a high-speed vacuum to remove air before the steam is introduced, allowing for better penetration and sterilization of packaged instruments. This is because when the air is removed, steam can more easily and effectively contact and penetrate any items inside, leading to a more effective sterilization process.