Ethylene oxide (EO)

Sterile processing definition

Ethylene oxide is a low-temperature gas sterilization method for heat- and moisture-sensitive items. It penetrates packaging and lumens well but has long cycles and needs aeration afterward to remove toxic residues. EO is toxic and carcinogenic, so its use is regulated and exposure must be monitored.

On the CRCST exam

Know that EO requires aeration and that it is a hazardous chemical.

Exam domain: Sterilization Process (about 21% of the exam)

Sterilization Process practice questions

The conditions steam sterilization needs
Prevacuum steam cycle time and temperature
Wet packs after steam sterilization
How to load basins in a steam sterilizer

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