What is chemical sterilization?

• A. A process that uses heat to sterilize instruments
• B. A method that utilizes radiation for sterilization
• C. A process using a chemical agent to eliminate viable organisms
• D. A technique that involves boiling instruments in water

Answer: (C)

Chemical sterilization refers specifically to the use of chemical agents or solutions to eliminate all forms of viable microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores from surfaces or instruments. This method is particularly useful for items that cannot withstand high temperatures or moisture, making it an essential technique in environments such as hospitals and laboratories where maintaining sterility is critical for patient safety and effective infection control.

The chemical agents employed in this process can vary widely, including ethylene oxide gas, hydrogen peroxide, and peracetic acid, among others. These agents work by disrupting the cell membranes, proteins, or nucleic acids of microorganisms, ensuring complete sterilization.

Other methods listed in the options, such as using heat, radiation, or boiling, rely on physical means to achieve sterility. Each of those methods has its own specific applications and limitations, and they do not involve the use of chemical agents as the primary mechanism for killing microorganisms. Therefore, chemical sterilization stands out as a distinct approach specifically focused on using chemicals for this purpose.