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

In the context of gas sterilization using ethylene oxide (EO) in a 100% EO sterilizer, operating pressure is not considered a basic factor of the sterilization process. The critical parameters for effective gas sterilization include concentration of the ethylene oxide gas, exposure time to allow for adequate penetration and microbial kill, and humidity and temperature to enhance the effectiveness of the gas.

Concentration is vital because it determines the amount of active agent available to sterilize the items. Exposure time is crucial as it ensures that the items are exposed to the gas long enough to achieve sterilization. Additionally, humidity and temperature can significantly affect the effectiveness of EO in the sterilization process; higher humidity levels, for instance, can facilitate the penetration of EO gas into the materials.

Operating pressure, however, does not play a significant role in the efficacy of the ethylene oxide sterilization process when using a 100% EO sterilizer. The primary focus in EO sterilization is on the chemical parameters and environmental conditions rather than mechanical pressure. Therefore, among the listed options, operating pressure does not align with the basic factors influencing gas sterilization efficacy.