Wyoming MPJE (Pharmacy Jurisprudence) Practice Exam

When should dry heat be used instead of autoclave for terminal sterilization?

1. When moisture-sensitive materials are present

2. When rapid sterilization is required

3. When the solution has a high pH

4. When there is a high saline concentration

The correct answer is: When moisture-sensitive materials are present

Dry heat should be used instead of an autoclave for terminal sterilization when moisture-sensitive materials are present. Autoclaving involves the use of steam under pressure to sterilize equipment and objects. However, certain materials may be sensitive to moisture and heat, in which case dry heat sterilization would be the preferred method. Dry heat works by raising the temperature of items to a level that kills bacteria and other microorganisms, without the use of moisture. This makes it suitable for sterilizing items that could be damaged by exposure to moisture, such as powders, oils, metal instruments, or certain plastics. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as rapid sterilization, pH of the solution, and saline concentration do not specifically dictate the use of dry heat over an autoclave.