What is the primary purpose of using a biological indicator in sterilization processes?

The primary purpose of using a biological indicator in sterilization processes is to verify sterilization effectiveness. Biological indicators contain live microorganisms that are highly resistant to the sterilization process being utilized, such as steam or ethylene oxide. By exposing these indicators to the sterilization conditions, healthcare facilities can assess whether the process successfully eliminated the microorganisms.

If the biological indicator shows no growth after being incubated post-sterilization, it confirms that the sterilization parameters were adequate to achieve sterilization. This method provides a definitive measure of the effectiveness of the sterilization process, as it is based on the survival of biological spores rather than physical or chemical parameters alone.

In contrast, measuring temperature, indicating humidity levels, and monitoring chemical exposures do play roles in ensuring that sterilization conditions are met, but they do not provide the same level of assurance regarding microbial inactivation as biological indicators do.