What indicates that items have been sterilized when using chemical strips?

The indication that items have been sterilized when using chemical strips is determined by a color change that occurs on the strip. These chemical indicators contain substances that react to the conditions of sterilization, such as temperature and moisture, during the sterilization process. If the strip changes color as specified by the manufacturer’s guidelines, it is an indication that the items have undergone the proper sterilization process. This visual confirmation helps ensure that instruments are safe for use and are free from potential pathogens.

In contrast, other methods like size increase, weight check, or smell tests are not reliable indicators of sterilization. Size and weight changes do not necessarily correlate with sterilization efficacy, and a smell test does not provide any scientific basis for confirming sterility. Therefore, observing a color change on the chemical indicator is the most accurate and widely accepted method for verifying that sterilization has been successfully achieved.