Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

How is microbial kill achieved in the Ozone sterilizer?

1. Filtration

2. Oxidation

3. Radiation

4. Incineration

The correct answer is: Oxidation

Ozone sterilization achieves microbial kill primarily through the process of oxidation. Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidizing agent that can effectively penetrate cell walls of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When ozone comes into contact with these microbes, it reacts with the cellular components, particularly the lipids and proteins, leading to disruption of cell metabolism, structural damage, and ultimately cell death. In the context of sterilization, this powerful oxidative capability means that ozone can break down organic materials and effectively kill a wide range of pathogens without the need for high temperatures, making it a valuable option in specific environments such as healthcare settings where traditional methods may not be suitable. While options like filtration, radiation, and incineration represent other methods of sterilization or microbial control, they work through different mechanisms. Filtration physically removes organisms from air or liquids. Radiation utilizes electromagnetic waves or particles to damage microbial DNA. Incineration involves the complete combustion of materials to eliminate organisms, which is a very different approach compared to the chemical action of ozone. Therefore, the ability of ozone to oxidize and disrupt microbial structures directly correlates with its effectiveness as a sterilization method, hence it is the correct answer.