The steam autoclave method of sterilization requires which condition?

The steam autoclave method of sterilization requires which condition?

• A. A source of ethylene oxide
• B. 15 lb of pressure for 15 minutes
• C. A maximum temperature of 100C
• D. Dry heat for 20 minutes

Answer: (B)

Steam autoclaving relies on steam under pressure to raise the effective sterilization temperature above 100°C, allowing moist heat to penetrate equipment and rapidly destroy microorganisms by denaturing proteins. The standard cycle uses enough pressure to reach about 121°C, typically around 15 psi, for about 15 minutes. This combination of elevated temperature and time is what achieves effective sterilization. The other options don’t fit: ethylene oxide is a different gas sterilization method, not steam; a maximum of 100°C would not provide the necessary heat or penetration; and dry heat is a distinct, moisture-free sterilization method that requires different conditions and times.

Steam autoclaving relies on steam under pressure to raise the effective sterilization temperature above 100°C, allowing moist heat to penetrate equipment and rapidly destroy microorganisms by denaturing proteins. The standard cycle uses enough pressure to reach about 121°C, typically around 15 psi, for about 15 minutes. This combination of elevated temperature and time is what achieves effective sterilization.

The other options don’t fit: ethylene oxide is a different gas sterilization method, not steam; a maximum of 100°C would not provide the necessary heat or penetration; and dry heat is a distinct, moisture-free sterilization method that requires different conditions and times.