Dental Assistant Practice Exam

What does a biological monitor assess in the sterilization process?

1. Effectiveness of cleaning solutions

2. Presence of chemical contaminants

3. Endoscope test for sterilization

4. Temperature stability during sterilization

The correct answer is: Endoscope test for sterilization

A biological monitor, also known as a biological indicator, is used to assess the effectiveness of the sterilization process by verifying whether a specific microorganism has been killed during the procedure. It typically contains a known population of viable microorganisms that are resistant to the sterilization method being used. After the sterilization cycle, the monitor is incubated to see if any growth occurs; the absence of growth confirms that the sterilization was effective. In this context, the correct choice accurately reflects the purpose of a biological monitor in testing the efficacy of sterilization, particularly concerning medical instruments such as endoscopes. This assessment ensures that all microbial life, including highly resistant spores, has been destroyed, indicating that the sterilization process was successful and safe for use on patients. The other options refer to different aspects of the sterilization and cleaning process, such as monitoring chemical contaminants or evaluating items such as cleaning solutions or temperature stability. While these elements are important in the overall infection control protocol, they do not specifically relate to the function of a biological monitor in verifying the successful destruction of pathogens during sterilization.