SterilizationQuestion 55 of 100
A technician is loading a steam sterilizer and wants to fit as many trays as possible before the shift ends. How full should the chamber be loaded?
a.Completely full, with items packed tightly so nothing shifts during the cycle
b.At least three quarters full, because partial loads waste energy
c.Loosely, with space between packages and between packages and the chamber walls so steam can circulate freely
d.Only with identical items, never mixed loads, regardless of spacing
Explanation
Free circulation of steam and unobstructed air removal require space around every package, so overloading is a leading cause of sterilization failure and wet packs. Packing tightly or filling to a minimum percentage for efficiency compromises the process. Mixed loads are acceptable when items are arranged correctly, for example metal below textiles, and when all items share the same validated cycle.
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