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Related Concept Videos

Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods01:29

Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods

As used in a healthcare facility, sterilization destroys all microorganisms through physical or chemical methods. The physical method includes steam, dry heat, boiling water, and radiation.
Steam sterilization uses non-toxic, low-cost moist heat in the form of saturated steam under pressure, which is fast, microbicidal, and sporicidal, and quickly warms and penetrates fabrics. Autoclaves, or steam sterilizers, expose each item to direct steam contact for a predetermined time at the necessary...
Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods01:30

Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods

In healthcare, the chemical method of sterilization uses chemical sterilants to treat surgical instruments and medical supplies to help prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens to patients. Due to heat sensitivity, most medical supplies and equipment should not be exposed to high temperatures. These parts include rubber, plastic, glass, and other similar elements.
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Temperature01:23

Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Temperature

Heat is a widely used method to control microbial growth by targeting and denaturing cellular proteins, thereby killing or inactivating microbes. This method's effectiveness is quantified using parameters such as the thermal death point (TDP), thermal death time (TDT), and decimal reduction time (D value). TDP represents the lowest temperature at which all microorganisms in a liquid suspension are eliminated within 10 minutes, whereas TDT is the time necessary to achieve sterilization at a...
Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection01:30

Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection

Cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization are the methods that help to break the infection chain and prevent disease.
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
Key Techniques in Microbiology01:19

Key Techniques in Microbiology

Aseptic techniques prevent contamination, ensure experimental accuracy, and protect researchers and microbial cultures. These techniques are essential in clinical, industrial, and research settings where sterility is required.Maintaining Sterility in Laboratory PracticesScientists maintain sterility by sterilizing tools with heat or chemicals, disinfecting work surfaces, and handling cultures in controlled environments. Working near an open flame or within a laminar flow hood reduces the risk...
Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration01:26

Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration

Radiation and filtration are essential tools for microbial control, targeting microorganisms through distinct mechanisms. Radiation eliminates microbes by damaging their DNA, either killing them or inhibiting their growth. Based on wavelength, radiation is classified into two types: nonionizing and ionizing radiation.Non-ionizing radiation, such as UV radiation (200–400 nm), is absorbed by DNA, causing defects that effectively disinfect surfaces, air, and water, including safety cabinets.

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Revisiting the moist heat sterilization myths.

James Agalloco1, James Akers, Russell Madsen

  • 1Agalloco & Associates, Belle Mead, NJ, USA. JAgalloco@aol.com

PDA Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology
|July 29, 2009
PubMed
Summary

This review debunks persistent myths about steam sterilization in the pharmaceutical industry. It addresses outdated misconceptions and highlights new, emerging mistruths since 1998.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Sterilization Technologies
  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Background:

  • Steam sterilization is a critical process in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • Prevailing myths can compromise sterilization efficacy and regulatory compliance.
  • An earlier review in 1998 addressed common misconceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and debunk current myths surrounding steam sterilization in the pharmaceutical industry.
  • To update the understanding of steam sterilization misconceptions since 1998.
  • To identify and address newly emerged mistruths in pharmaceutical steam sterilization.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications and industry practices.
  • Analysis of historical and contemporary data on steam sterilization.

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Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
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  • Expert review and consensus on prevalent myths.

    • Main Results:

    • Several myths debunked in the 1998 review persist.
    • New misconceptions regarding steam sterilization have emerged.
    • Misunderstandings relate to cycle parameters, validation, and biological indicators.

    Conclusions:

    • Continuous education and updated guidelines are necessary to combat steam sterilization myths.
    • Addressing these myths is crucial for maintaining sterile product quality and patient safety.
    • Further research may be needed to clarify complex aspects of steam sterilization.