Infection ControlQuestion 65 of 100
How often should a dental office perform biological (spore) monitoring of each sterilizer?
a.Once a year at the annual equipment inspection
b.Once a month
c.Only when a sterilizer is repaired
d.At least weekly, and also with every load containing an implantable device
Explanation
Biological monitoring with spore tests is performed at least weekly for each sterilizer, and additionally with every load that contains an implantable device, because spores are the only method that verifies microorganisms were actually killed. Annual or monthly testing would leave failures undetected for long periods. Testing after repairs is also required, but it does not replace the routine weekly schedule.
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