Which sterilisation method cannot be used to sterilise drapes and swabs?

• A. Steam sterilisation
• B. Hot air oven
• C. Radiation
• D. Ethylene oxide

Answer: (B)

Drapes and swabs are textile loads that need sterilisation without damaging the fabric. Steam sterilisation uses moist heat that penetrates porous materials quickly and at temperatures that textiles can tolerate, making it the usual choice for these items. A hot air oven relies on dry heat at very high temperatures for long periods and penetrates fabrics poorly, increasing the risk of scorching or fiber damage, so it isn’t suitable for drapes and swabs. Ethylene oxide works at lower temperatures and without moisture, which is useful for heat- or moisture-sensitive textiles, and radiation can sterilise items that can’t tolerate heat or moisture but requires special equipment. Therefore, the dry heat hot air oven cannot be used for drapes and swabs.