Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is an autoclave used for?

1. Boiling water for sanitation

2. Sterilization by steam under pressure

3. Cold storage of instruments

4. Disinfection of non-porous surfaces

The correct answer is: Sterilization by steam under pressure

An autoclave is a crucial tool in the field of esthetics and many medical settings, as it is specifically designed for sterilization. It utilizes steam under pressure to achieve high temperatures that effectively kill all forms of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. The process not only ensures that instruments are free from harmful pathogens after being exposed to various treatments and procedures but also meets the stringent health and safety regulations required for personal care services. This method of sterilization is superior to simply boiling water, as it achieves a higher temperature and utilizes the pressure to ensure thorough penetration of heat into the items being sterilized. While disinfection processes can kill many germs, they may not eliminate all spores or provide the assurance of total sterilization offered by an autoclave. Similarly, options related to cold storage or surface disinfection do not pertain to the sterilization capabilities of an autoclave, which is a distinct and vital process in the prevention of infection and the maintenance of hygiene in esthetic practices.