Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

What are the parameters for Low Temperature Gas Plasma (LTGP) sterilization?

1. Time, ammonia gas, temperature

2. Time, temperature, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma

3. Pressure, humidity, and hydrogen peroxide

4. Heat, steam, and sterilization time

The correct answer is: Time, temperature, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma

Low Temperature Gas Plasma (LTGP) sterilization primarily utilizes hydrogen peroxide gas plasma as its active agent to achieve sterilization. The process involves specific parameters that ensure effective sterilization while being safe for heat-sensitive medical instruments. Time is a crucial parameter in the LTGP process, ensuring that the instruments are exposed to the hydrogen peroxide gas plasma for a sufficient duration to allow the gas to penetrate and act on all surfaces effectively. The temperature must be kept low to avoid damage to heat-sensitive materials; typically, this ranges from 40 to 50 degrees Celsius. Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma is generated by converting hydrogen peroxide into a vapor, which then forms a plasma state under specific low-temperature conditions. This plasma is highly reactive and has the ability to destroy a wide range of microorganisms, including spores, which makes it effective for sterilization purposes. In summary, the use of time and temperature along with hydrogen peroxide gas plasma defines the operational parameters of LTGP sterilization, making it suitable for delicate instruments that can be compromised by higher temperature and moisture methods.