OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

For autoclaving, if 200 ml of media were to be prepared, what volume container should be chosen?

1. 200 ml

2. 300 ml

3. 400 ml

4. 500 ml

The correct answer is: 500 ml

When considering the volume of the media to be autoclaved, it's crucial to choose a container that allows for some headspace above the liquid. This headspace is necessary to accommodate for the expansion of the liquid during heating, as well as to prevent boiling over or splattering which can lead to contamination. Choosing a container that is exactly the size of the media being autoclaved, such as a 200 ml container, may not allow for this necessary space, potentially resulting in issues such as spills or improper sterilization. A container that is too small could also lead to overfilling, which poses inherent risks during the autoclave cycle. On the other hand, selecting a larger container like one with a 500 ml capacity ensures there is ample room for the media to expand safely. This choice supports the effective functioning of the autoclave by providing space for steam circulation and prevents any risk of overflow during the sterilization process. Thus, the recommendation to use a 500 ml container is based on the need for additional headspace to guarantee safe and effective autoclaving of the 200 ml of media prepared.