Question

What are the 3 processes involved in sterilisation of instruments?

Answer 1

Sterilization of instruments involves three main processes: dry-heat sterilization (e.g., flaming loops or using a dry-heat sterilizer), moist-heat sterilization (using an autoclave), and the use of chemical sterilants to ensure all microorganisms, including viruses and endospores, are killed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Three processes involved in sterilization of instruments are:

1. Dry-Heat Sterilization: This involves the direct application of high heat to the instruments. Specific protocols for dry-heat sterilization may include using a Bunsen burner to sterilize inoculating loops (''flaming a loop''), or placing instruments in a dry-heat sterilizer (such as an oven) for an extended period at temperatures up to 170 °C.
2. Moist-Heat Sterilization: This method is more effective than dry-heat due to better penetration into cells. The autoclave is a commonly used device that employs this technique, using pressurized steam to achieve high temperatures that ensure sterilization.
3. Chemical Sterilants: Certain chemicals, referred to as sterilants, can achieve sterilization by effectively killing all microbes, including viruses and endospores, provided they are exposed for a sufficient amount of time.

All these methods aim to achieve the complete removal or killing of all vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses from instruments to maintain an aseptic work environment in settings such as laboratories and medical facilities.