Which is a disadvantage of steam sterilization?

a. Steam leaves a harmful residue on instruments.
b. Items need to be clean and free of grease.
c. Steam is expensive and not easily supplied.
d. Steam's total time cycle is the longest of all methods.

ANS: B
Items need to be clean, free of grease and oil, and not sensitive to heat. Precautions must be used in using the sterilizer and drying the load. Impurities can cause wet or stained packs and stained instruments.