Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free HSPA Practice Questions and Study Guide

Cold storage is not a common sterilization method; rather, it is primarily used for the preservation of biological materials and substances that require low temperatures to maintain their integrity and stability. In the context of sterilization, the aim is to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which is not achieved by merely storing items at low temperatures.

In contrast, steam sterilization, also known as autoclaving, uses high-pressure steam to ensure effective sterilization of heat-resistant instruments. Ethylene oxide sterilization is a chemical process that utilizes ethylene oxide gas to sterilize items that cannot withstand high temperatures, making it a popular choice for delicate equipment. Hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization employs vaporized hydrogen peroxide to achieve a high level of sterilization, particularly for sensitive instruments. Each of these methods is widely recognized and utilized within sterile processing to achieve sterilization, unlike cold storage, which serves a different purpose.