Steam Sterilization Technologies
Course Description
This course provides comprehensive training in all steam-based sterilization processes used in healthcare facilities, including gravity displacement, pre-vacuum (dynamic air removal), and immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS/flash). Students will gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to operate, monitor, and maintain different types of steam sterilizers — from tabletop units to large-capacity autoclaves — while ensuring compliance with national standards, manufacturer instructions for use (IFUs), and infection prevention guidelines.
Emphasis is placed on sterilization parameters, monitoring and quality assurance practices, load release protocols, and troubleshooting operational issues to ensure sterile processing technicians can safeguard patient safety through effective sterilization practices.
Course Outline / Units
Unit 1 — Principles of Steam Sterilization
Moist heat sterilization science (time, temperature, pressure)
Steam quality and conditioning
Factors affecting sterilization effectiveness
Unit 2 — Steam Sterilization Methods & Applications
Gravity displacement cycles
Pre-vacuum (dynamic air removal) cycles
Immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS/flash) and clinical applications
Unit 3 — Sterilizer Equipment & Operation
Tabletop sterilizers in outpatient/clinic settings
Large hospital autoclaves (single and double door)
Pass-through sterilizers for restricted environments
Unit 4 — Monitoring & Quality Assurance
Biological indicators (BI)
Chemical indicators (CI)
Mechanical indicators (PI)
Documentation and recordkeeping for compliance
Unit 5 — Safety, Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Sterilizer safety controls and precautions
Preventive maintenance procedures
Identifying and resolving cycle failures
Environmental safety and operator responsibilities
Syllabus Details
Clock Hours: 15 (theory: 10, lab: 5)
Prerequisite: SPT 106 – Preparation & Packaging Processes
Outcome: Students will competently operate, monitor, and troubleshoot various steam sterilization systems, ensuring loads meet sterility assurance standards before release.
