Clinical ProceduresQuestion 46 of 100
Which set of conditions represents standard steam autoclave sterilization for wrapped instruments?
a.160°F at 5 psi for 5 minutes
b.212°F at 0 psi for 60 minutes
c.250°F, about 121°C, at 15 psi for roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on the load
d.300°F at 30 psi for 3 minutes
Explanation
Standard gravity steam sterilization uses about 250°F, or 121°C, at 15 psi with an exposure time near 20 to 30 minutes for wrapped items, plus drying time. Boiling water at 212°F and 0 psi does not reach sterilization conditions and only disinfects. The very low and very high settings listed do not match accepted autoclave parameters and would either fail to sterilize or damage instruments.
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