OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

When loading an autoclave:

1. Loosen the lids of containers

2. Lay containers on their sides if possible

3. Have items packed loosely

4. Make sure liquids only half fill containers

The correct answer is: Have items packed loosely

Having items packed loosely in an autoclave is indeed the correct approach. This practice ensures that steam can circulate freely around the items, which is crucial for effective sterilization. When items are densely packed, steam can be trapped, preventing the complete penetration necessary for sterilization, and can lead to incomplete sterilization of the contained materials. While there are merits to loosening lids of containers and ensuring that liquids are only half-filled, these practices are more about preventing issues during the sterilization process rather than optimizing it through proper packing. Laying containers on their sides can also lead to poor steam penetration and is not a standard practice in loading an autoclave. Therefore, the focus on packing items loosely directly supports the fundamental objective of steam sterilization—ensuring that all surfaces of the items come into contact with steam.