What is an indicator of the sterility of a pack after it is autoclaved?

What is an indicator of the sterility of a pack after it is autoclaved?

• A. The pack is sealed tight
• B. The indicator strip has turned the correct color
• C. The pack is warm to the touch
• D. The documentation is complete

Answer: (B)

An indicator of the sterility of a pack after it is autoclaved is that the indicator strip has turned the correct color. This strip often contains a chemical that changes color when exposed to the specific temperature, pressure, and steam saturation necessary for effective sterilization. When the autoclave process is successfully completed, it confirms that the pack has undergone conditions favorable for sterilization, thus indicating that it is sterile. Other choices may offer certain insights related to the packing process. For example, a tightly sealed pack may help maintain sterility and prevent contamination, and warm packs indicate that they have recently been processed. However, these aspects do not verify the actual sterilization process. Additionally, complete documentation is essential for tracking and record-keeping but does not directly confirm the effectiveness of the sterilization process itself. The true measure of successful autoclaving is reflected in the color change of the indicator strip.

An indicator of the sterility of a pack after it is autoclaved is that the indicator strip has turned the correct color. This strip often contains a chemical that changes color when exposed to the specific temperature, pressure, and steam saturation necessary for effective sterilization. When the autoclave process is successfully completed, it confirms that the pack has undergone conditions favorable for sterilization, thus indicating that it is sterile.

Other choices may offer certain insights related to the packing process. For example, a tightly sealed pack may help maintain sterility and prevent contamination, and warm packs indicate that they have recently been processed. However, these aspects do not verify the actual sterilization process. Additionally, complete documentation is essential for tracking and record-keeping but does not directly confirm the effectiveness of the sterilization process itself. The true measure of successful autoclaving is reflected in the color change of the indicator strip.