What temperature and time must a steam sterilizer chamber reach to ensure spore elimination?

To ensure spore elimination through steam sterilization, the correct temperature and time combination is critical. The answer of 270°F for 4 minutes reflects the accepted parameters for achieving biological spore destruction. At this temperature, the steam under pressure can effectively denature proteins and kill resistant microorganisms, including bacterial spores, which are among the most difficult pathogens to eliminate.

In steam sterilization, a higher temperature can decrease the required exposure time. The specific combination of 270°F for 4 minutes is based on established protocols, such as those from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and other standards in surgical technology and sterilization practices.

Other options present temperatures and times that either exceed what is necessary or fall outside the effective range for ensuring thorough sterilization. For instance, 240°F generally requires a longer exposure time, usually around 30 minutes, to achieve similar results as the correct option. Consequently, it's understood that operating within these precise parameters is crucial for effective sterilization in surgical settings.