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

In multi-layer container systems, where should chemical indicators be placed?

1. Only on the top layer

2. At the bottom of the container

3. Each level

4. Only on the outside of the container

The correct answer is: Each level

Chemical indicators are placed at each level of multi-layer container systems to ensure proper sterilization throughout the entire assembly. This placement is essential because steam penetration, gas exchange, or other sterilization processes can vary between layers and surfaces, which makes it crucial to verify that all levels have been adequately exposed to the sterilization conditions. By placing chemical indicators at each level, you can confirm that the sterilant has effectively reached every part of the contents. This multi-level monitoring helps prevent situations where some items might not be sterilized due to inadequate exposure, ensuring patient safety and compliance with sterilization standards. The other choices do not provide comprehensive monitoring. For example, placing a chemical indicator only on the top layer would not confirm the sterilization of the items beneath it, as they might not experience the same conditions. Similarly, indicators only on the bottom or outside of the container would not reflect the effectiveness of the sterilization process for the entire container's contents.