SterilizationQuestion 43 of 100
A typical IUSS gravity cycle for nonporous metal instruments only is 270 degrees F (132 degrees C) for 3 minutes. What changes when the item is porous, cannulated, or has a lumen?
a.The temperature is lowered to 250 degrees F and the time stays at 3 minutes
b.The cycle is unchanged because IUSS parameters are fixed
c.A longer exposure, commonly 10 minutes in a gravity cycle, is required per the device manufacturer instructions
d.The item cannot be sterilized by steam under any circumstance
Explanation
Porous items, lumens, and complex devices are harder for steam to penetrate, so validated IUSS parameters extend the exposure time, commonly to 10 minutes in a gravity cycle. The device manufacturer written instructions for use always define the required cycle. Lowering the temperature reduces lethality, IUSS parameters are not fixed across device types, and most such devices are perfectly steam compatible.
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