autoclave (redirected from Steam sterilizer)

autoclave /au·to·clave/ (aw´to-klav) a self-locking apparatus for the sterilization of materials by steam under pressure.

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au·to·clave (ôt-klv)

n.

A pressurized, steam-heated vessel used for sterilization.

v.

To treat in an autoclave.

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autoclave (ô´tōklāv),

n a device for effecting sterilization by steam under pressure. It uses steam heated to 121° C (250° F), at 103 kPa (15 psi) above atmospheric pressure, for 15 minutes. The steam and pressure transfer sufficient heat into organisms to kill them.

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autoclave

a self-locking apparatus for the sterilization of materials by steam under pressure. The autoclave allows steam to flow around each article placed in the chamber. The vapor penetrates cloth or paper used to package the articles being sterilized. Autoclaving is one of the most effective methods for destruction of all types of microorganisms. The amount of time and degree of temperature necessary for sterilization depend on the articles to be sterilized and whether they are wrapped or left directly exposed to the steam.

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autoclave tape

special masking tape used to close packages of surgical materials to be autoclaved. Includes a heat sensitive dye in diagonal stripes. The appearance of the dye can be misunderstood; it does not indicate that the package has been sterilized only that it has been exposed to some heat.