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

Which of the following is a wet sterilization system for unwrapped items?

1. Hydrogen peroxide

2. Peracetic acid

3. Ethylene oxide

4. Superheated steam

The correct answer is: Peracetic acid

Peracetic acid is a wet sterilization system that is particularly effective for unwrapped items. It works through a combination of peracetic acid and water, providing both an antimicrobial effect and the ability to penetrate surfaces effectively. This system is valued for its rapid action and ability to sterilize in a short amount of time, typically at lower temperatures than traditional steam sterilization, making it suitable for heat-sensitive materials. Hydrogen peroxide, while effective for sterilizing certain materials, is typically used in vapor form and doesn't function well as a wet sterilization system for unwrapped items. Ethylene oxide is a gas that is used for sterilizing heat-sensitive items but requires a more complex process that involves sealing items in a chamber rather than applying wet conditions. Superheated steam, while a form of sterilization, is not used for unwrapped items as it requires containment and specific conditions to achieve sterilization. Thus, peracetic acid stands out as the correct answer in this context for wet sterilization of unwrapped items.