SterilizationQuestion 46 of 100
A tray wrapped in a cellulose-based (paper) wrapper is about to be loaded into a hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilizer. What is the problem?
a.Cellulose reacts with hydrogen peroxide to form a toxic residue on instruments
b.Cellulose absorbs hydrogen peroxide and will cause the cycle to abort or fail, so only nonwoven polypropylene wrap and compatible trays may be used
c.Cellulose wrap melts at the operating temperature of the sterilizer
d.Cellulose wrap is acceptable if a second wrapper is applied over it
Explanation
Hydrogen peroxide is readily absorbed by cellulose materials such as paper, linen, and cotton, which strips sterilant from the chamber and causes cycle cancellation, so only polypropylene wrap, compatible pouches, and approved containers are used. The issue is absorption, not toxic residue formation or melting, since the process runs at low temperature. Adding a second cellulose layer makes the absorption problem worse.
Law Reference: AAMI ST79Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- 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 surgeon sends a heat-sensitive device with a long narrow lumen and asks whether it can be processed with ethylene oxide. Which statement describes ethylene oxide sterilization?
- Why must every ethylene oxide load undergo an aeration phase before items are released?
- What are the byproducts of a hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization cycle, and what does this mean operationally?
- An ozone sterilization system is being introduced. Which statement about ozone sterilization is accurate?
- A department is deciding which sterilization method to use for a heat-stable stainless steel instrument set. Which method should be selected and why?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against HSPA Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Exam · How we review