Which bacteria is used as a biological indicator in steam sterilization?

Which bacteria is used as a biological indicator in steam sterilization?

• A. Bacillus cereus
• B. Bacillus stearothermophilus
• C. Bacillus subtilis
• D. Bacillus anthracis

Answer: (B)

Bacillus stearothermophilus is the bacteria used as a biological indicator in steam sterilization because it is a thermophilic organism that is highly resistant to heat and various sterilization processes. Its spores can survive steam sterilization conditions; thus, it serves as an ideal marker for testing the efficacy of the sterilization process. When steam sterilization is effective, the spores of Bacillus stearothermophilus will be killed, indicating that the sterilizing conditions were sufficient to ensure pathogen elimination. The use of this specific bacterium is grounded in its ability to withstand the temperatures and conditions typically associated with steam sterilization, making it a reliable measure of whether sterilization has occurred effectively. Testing with Bacillus stearothermophilus helps ensure the safety and sterility of surgical instruments and supplies.

Bacillus stearothermophilus is the bacteria used as a biological indicator in steam sterilization because it is a thermophilic organism that is highly resistant to heat and various sterilization processes. Its spores can survive steam sterilization conditions; thus, it serves as an ideal marker for testing the efficacy of the sterilization process. When steam sterilization is effective, the spores of Bacillus stearothermophilus will be killed, indicating that the sterilizing conditions were sufficient to ensure pathogen elimination.

The use of this specific bacterium is grounded in its ability to withstand the temperatures and conditions typically associated with steam sterilization, making it a reliable measure of whether sterilization has occurred effectively. Testing with Bacillus stearothermophilus helps ensure the safety and sterility of surgical instruments and supplies.