Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam 2026 - Free Sterile Processing Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

Placing paper-plastic peel packages on their edge is the best practice for proper sterilization. This orientation allows for optimal steam penetration and circulation within the sterilization chamber. When packages are positioned on their edge, it minimizes the risk of moisture getting trapped inside, which is crucial for preventing the creation of dead spaces where sterilant could fail to reach.

Maintaining proper orientation also helps ensure that the packages do not become crushed, which can compromise the integrity of the materials and seals. Additionally, this positioning aids in uniform exposure to the sterilizing agent, further enhancing the effectiveness of the sterilization process.

Other methods, like laying packages flat or stacking them, could lead to uneven exposure or obstruction of the steam or other sterilants. These practices are less efficient and may jeopardize the overall effectiveness of the sterilization cycle. Thus, placing peel packages on their edge is a standard recommended practice in the field.