Esthetics Core Written Practice Test

Which of the following is a characteristic of proper sterilization?

1. Use of alcohol wipes

2. Utilizing an autoclave

3. Simply washing with soap

4. Using disposable items only

The correct answer is: Utilizing an autoclave

Utilizing an autoclave is a definitive characteristic of proper sterilization. An autoclave is a device that uses high-pressure steam to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi. The process involves subjecting instruments to high temperatures and pressure for a specified period, ensuring that all contaminants are effectively removed, which is crucial in environments like salons or medical facilities where strict hygiene standards must be maintained. In contrast, other methods of decontamination, such as using alcohol wipes or washing with soap, may reduce the number of microorganisms but do not ensure complete sterilization. Alcohol can be effective for disinfection but does not guarantee that all spores and bacteria are eradicated. Simply washing with soap is effective for cleansing but does not provide the level of microbial kill that sterilization requires. Additionally, while using disposable items can minimize the risk of cross-contamination, it is not recognized as a sterilization method. Thus, the autoclave is specifically designed and validated for achieving complete sterilization, making it the correct answer.