SterilizationQuestion 33 of 100
A Bowie-Dick test sheet comes out of the sterilizer with a pale, uneven center and darker edges. What does this indicate and what should be done?
a.Incomplete air removal; the sterilizer should not be used for patient loads until the problem is corrected and a passing test is obtained
b.A normal result caused by the density of the test pack; the sterilizer may be used
c.Excessive steam pressure; reduce the set point and continue processing
d.A failed biological indicator; quarantine all implants processed that week
Explanation
Uneven or lighter color change, especially in the center, means residual air remained in the pack and steam did not penetrate uniformly, which points to an air leak, a faulty vacuum pump, or a plugged drain. The sterilizer must be taken out of service for patient loads until the cause is found and a passing test is achieved. A non-uniform result is never normal, and the Bowie-Dick test measures air removal rather than pressure or microbial kill.
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Related questions on this topic
- A wrapped instrument set is being sterilized in a dynamic-air-removal steam sterilizer at 270 degrees F (132 degrees C). What is the typical minimum exposure time?
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