Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which method is used to ensure that pathogens are effectively killed during an autoclave cycle?

1. Chemical indicators

2. Spore testing

3. Mechanical gauge checks

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

To ensure that pathogens are effectively killed during an autoclave cycle, utilizing all available methods is essential for guaranteeing sterilization. Chemical indicators provide immediate, visible evidence that certain conditions have been met during the sterilization process, such as the correct temperature and pressure. They change color or form upon exposure to sterilizing conditions, giving a quick assessment of whether the cycle was completed. Spore testing is another critical method that involves using biological indicators with highly resistant spores, such as Bacillus stearothermophilus. After an autoclave cycle, these spore tests are incubated to determine if any spores survived, providing a definitive measure of the autoclave's effectiveness. Mechanical gauge checks involve monitoring the equipment's built-in gauges for temperature and pressure to ensure that they reach and maintain the levels necessary for effective sterilization. Incorporating all of these methods provides a comprehensive approach to verifying that the autoclave is functioning properly and that sterilization was successful, thus ensuring that any potential pathogens have been effectively killed. Therefore, using a combination of chemical indicators, spore testing, and mechanical gauge checks leads to the most reliable assessment of the autoclave's performance and the safety of sterilized materials.