Which one of the following methods is commonly used for sterilization of this device?

NORCET 2 -2021 (Shift-2)

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Medium

Appeared in: NORCET 2 -2021 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Gamma radiation is a form of ionizing radiation that effectively sterilizes medical devices without using high heat.
It is the preferred method for single-use, heat-sensitive items like latex gloves, as it can penetrate the final packaging to ensure sterility.
The process works by damaging the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from replicating and causing infection.
This method is highly effective, reliable, and allows for the sterilization of pre-packaged items on a large industrial scale.

Option A: Autoclaving uses high-pressure steam at temperatures (121-134°C) that would destroy heat-sensitive materials like latex.
Option B: Boiling water (100°C) is a method of disinfection, not sterilization. It does not kill resilient bacterial spores and is therefore not suitable for surgical equipment.
Option C: Chemical disinfection typically refers to using liquid agents to clean surfaces or items. It does not guarantee sterility (the complete absence of all microorganisms) and cannot penetrate sealed packaging.

Visual 1: Infographic: A chart comparing different sterilization methods (Autoclave, Gamma Radiation, Ethylene Oxide, Dry Heat) with columns for mechanism, suitable materials (heat-sensitive vs. heat-resistant), and common applications.
Visual 2: Diagram: A simplified illustration of the gamma irradiation process, showing packaged medical supplies on a conveyor belt moving past a Cobalt-60 source within a shielded chamber.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sterilization methods for heat-sensitive medical devices as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the correct sterilization method is crucial for infection prevention and control. Using improperly sterilized equipment, such as gloves damaged by heat, would compromise the sterile field and dramatically increase the risk of Surgical Site Infections (SSIs).
Nurses are responsible for ensuring the integrity of sterile packaging. If a package of sterile gloves is torn, wet, or compromised in any way, it must be considered non-sterile and discarded, regardless of the initial sterilization method.
What if? If the gloves were made of a reusable, heat-resistant silicone instead of disposable latex, autoclaving might become the appropriate method for in-hospital resterilization between uses.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the object in the image: disposable sterile latex surgical gloves.
Next, analyze the properties of the material. Latex is a polymer that is sensitive to high temperatures.
Evaluate each option based on its mechanism and compatibility with heat-sensitive materials.
Autoclaving and boiling use high heat, which would damage latex. Eliminate these options.
Chemical disinfection is generally a surface treatment and does not guarantee sterility for surgical-grade items inside packaging.
Gamma radiation is a known 'cold' sterilization method used for pre-packaged, disposable, heat-sensitive medical supplies. This makes it the most suitable choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Sterilization methods for heat-sensitive medical devices
Stem keywords: sterilization, device, surgical gloves
Lead-in keywords: Which one
Clinical cues: The image shows sterile latex surgical gloves, which are heat-sensitive.

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