Which of the following is a reason chemical sterilization might be used instead of autoclaving?

• A. Chemical sterilization does not require any safety precautions.
• B. Autoclaving is ineffective against all types of microorganisms.
• C. Chemical sterilization is always faster than autoclaving.
• D. Some materials are sensitive to high temperatures and may be damaged by autoclaving.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of sterilization: it is used to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, to ensure materials are free from contamination.
2. Recognize that autoclaving uses high temperature and pressure (typically 121°C and 15 psi) to sterilize materials, which is very effective but can damage heat-sensitive items.
3. Identify that chemical sterilization uses chemical agents (like ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide gas) to sterilize materials at lower temperatures, making it suitable for heat-sensitive objects.
4. Evaluate the given options by considering the properties and limitations of both methods, focusing on safety, effectiveness, speed, and material compatibility.
5. Conclude that the main reason to choose chemical sterilization over autoclaving is to protect materials that are sensitive to high temperatures and could be damaged by the autoclaving process.