OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

What process does a chemical sterilization unit (chemiclave) typically handle?

1. Oils

2. Heat labile enrichments

3. Powders

4. A and C

The correct answer is: A and C

A chemical sterilization unit, commonly known as a chemiclave, utilizes chemical agents to sterilize instruments and materials that may be sensitive to heat. This method is particularly important for items that cannot withstand high temperatures, which is why heat-labile materials are specifically addressed by this technique. Items classified under heat-labile enrichments often include plastic instruments, certain biological products, and any heat-sensitive equipment typically used in medical and laboratory settings. The chemiclave uses chemicals like ethylene oxide to effectively penetrate and sterilize these items without degrading them, making it an ideal sterilization solution. In addition, the handling of powders is relevant in contexts where fine particulate matter can be challenging to sterilize using traditional methods. Powders might include pharmaceutical preparations or other materials that require strict sterilization before use. Therefore, by combining these two categories—heat-labile enrichments and powders—the chemiclave serves a crucial role in ensuring that various sensitive materials are safely and effectively sterilized, thus addressing the needs of medical technology and laboratory practices.