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Question 62 8 pts List and describe the mode of action of 4 uniquely different chemical agents of sterilization. HTML Editor BIVA-A-TE 3 1 1 x x, EE V GOTT 12pt Parac р O words I'm Yes BIU 3 e q w t у u o S d g h k N Х C. V b m 123 123

Answer 1

62. Chemical sterilization is the elimination of all viable microorganisms and their spores using liquid or gaseous compounds. The method used for chemical sterilization varies with the form of chemical used. It is typically used for the devices that are sensitive for high heat used in steam sterilization and also for the devices that can be damaged by irradiation. Following are the 4 uniquely different chemical agents of sterilization.

1. Ethylene oxide: Ethylene oxide (ETO) is a colorless gas which is flammable and explosive but it is liquid at temperatures below 1-8 degree Celsius. It is widely used as a low-temperature sterilant. It is an effective sterilizing agent for heat and moisture sensitive materials in hospitals, industry and laboratories. The microbicidal activity of ETO is considered to be a result of alkylation of proteins, DNA and RNA. It attacks the cellular proteins and nucleic acids of microorganisms.

2. Bleach: Household bleach is a commonly used disinfectant. Hypochlorite or chlorine compound is the active ingredient in bleach. It oxidizes peptide linkage and denatures the proteins in the external membranes of microorganisms thus killing them.

3. Glutaraldehyde: Glutaraldehyde is an important dialdehyde that has found usage as a disinfectant and sterilant for low-temperature disinfection and sterilization of endoscopes and surgical equipment and as a fixative in electron microscopy. It has a broad spectrum of activity against bacteria and their spores, fungi and viruses. It targets the bacterial cell wall by cross-linking the proteins and inhibits the synthesis of cell wall. It also cross links with other cellular proteins. It is more active at alkaline than acidic pHs.

4. Hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound formed from hydrogen and water and has a chemical formula H2O2. It has been used as an antiseptic since 1920s. It acts on the bacterial cell wall and kills the bacteria by the process of oxidation. It also acts on the spores of bacteria and destabilizes the spores. It plays an important role in degrading the bacterial cell wall.