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

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What is critical for the penetration of EO into bacterial cells?

  1. Concentration

  2. Temperature

  3. Air flow

  4. Humidity

The correct answer is: Humidity

Humidity is critical for the penetration of ethylene oxide (EO) into bacterial cells because it aids in the effectiveness of the gas during the sterilization process. Ethylene oxide requires moisture to facilitate the reaction and assist in the diffusion of the gas into the cells of microorganisms. The presence of humidity can enhance the activity of EO, allowing it to more effectively penetrate the cell walls and disrupt vital cellular processes, leading to the elimination of bacteria. In environments with low humidity, EO may not be able to penetrate as effectively, reducing its sterilization efficacy. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate level of humidity is essential for ensuring the success of sterilization procedures using ethylene oxide. Furthermore, factors like concentration, temperature, and airflow play supportive roles in the overall effectiveness but are not as critical as humidity for facilitating gas penetration into bacterial cells.