Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What is the primary method utilized by an autoclave for sterilization?

1. Boiling Water

2. Pressure

3. Dry Heat

4. Radiation

The correct answer is: Pressure

The primary method utilized by an autoclave for sterilization is pressure. Autoclaves operate by using steam under high pressure, which allows the temperature to exceed the boiling point of water. This creates a moist heat environment that effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and spores more efficiently than boiling water alone. The combination of high temperature and pressure ensures thorough sterilization, making autoclaves a reliable choice for medical and esthetic equipment. The other methods listed, such as dry heat and radiation, employ different mechanisms for sterilization. Dry heat relies on high temperatures to kill microorganisms, but it does not penetrate as effectively as moist heat under pressure. Radiation is primarily used for sterilizing certain products and does not involve heat in the same way that an autoclave does. While boiling water can kill some pathogens, it is insufficient for complete sterilization, particularly of resistant spores. Thus, using pressure in an autoclave is the most effective method for ensuring sterility.