Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is not appropriate for safe use of an autoclave?

1. Stapling the autoclave bags shut before loading

2. Using a spore control once a week

3. Daily cleaning of the strainer at the discharge channel

4. Maintaining records of time, temperature, and pressure of each load treated

The correct answer is: Stapling the autoclave bags shut before loading

Using staples to seal autoclave bags is inappropriate because it can interfere with the sterilization process. Autoclaves rely on steam penetration to effectively sterilize their contents, and any obstructions can hinder this. Staples may also potentially damage the sterilization equipment or create hazards within the autoclave by causing punctures or components to snag. On the other hand, implementing spore control on a weekly basis ensures that the autoclave is achieving its sterilization effectiveness, as testing with control spores serves as a quality assurance measure for the sterilization process. Daily cleaning of the strainer at the discharge channel is essential for maintaining the operational efficiency of the autoclave and preventing clogs that could impede proper function. Additionally, maintaining records of time, temperature, and pressure for each load is critical for ensuring compliance with sterilization protocols and for tracing any potential issues that might arise.