Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

Which piece of equipment is essential for confirming air removal in dynamic air removal-type sterilizers?

1. Temperature sensor

2. Air-removal test with a Type II chemical indicator

3. Pressure gauge

4. Humidity indicator

The correct answer is: Air-removal test with a Type II chemical indicator

The essential piece of equipment for confirming air removal in dynamic air removal-type sterilizers is the air-removal test with a Type II chemical indicator. This type of test specifically assesses the ability of the sterilizer to remove air from the sterilization chamber, which is crucial for effective sterilization. Dynamic air removal sterilizers require the removal of air to create the appropriate conditions for steam penetration and disinfection. A Type II chemical indicator is designed for this purpose, indicating whether the conditions necessary for sterilization were met, particularly if the air has been adequately removed. It provides visual confirmation that steam is in contact with the items being sterilized, which is critical to ensuring the efficacy of the sterilization process. The other options do not specifically verify air removal in the context of dynamic air removal sterilizers. While temperature sensors monitor the temperature during the sterilization cycle, they do not confirm air removal. A pressure gauge provides pressure readings, which can indicate that the sterilizer is running properly, but this does not directly relate to whether air has been removed. A humidity indicator assesses moisture levels, which can be important for sterilization but does not address the confirmation of air removal in the same way. Thus, the air-removal test with a Type II chemical indicator