Steam Sterilization Principles & Microbiology

Syllabus

# STE 101 - Steam Sterilization Principles & Microbiology

**Program:** Steam Sterilizer Repair Technician Certificate
**Credits:** 3 (Term 1)

## Course Description
This foundational course provides a comprehensive understanding of steam sterilization principles essential for biomedical equipment service technicians. Students will explore saturated steam theory, including its physical properties and heat transfer mechanisms, and delve into microbial inactivation kinetics, specifically D-value and lethality calculations. The curriculum covers various load types and their impact on sterilization cycles, emphasizing critical sterilization assurance methods such as biological and chemical indicators, and physical monitoring. A strong focus is placed on the broader infection control context, preparing technicians to maintain and troubleshoot steam sterilizers effectively while adhering to stringent safety and regulatory standards.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
* Explain the fundamental principles of saturated steam generation and heat transfer in sterilization processes.
* Calculate D-values and lethality (F0) for various microbial inactivation scenarios.
* Differentiate between various load types and their specific requirements for effective steam sterilization.
* Select and interpret appropriate sterilization assurance monitoring methods, including biological and chemical indicators.
* Describe the role of steam sterilization within a comprehensive infection control program.
* Identify common factors that compromise sterilization efficacy and potential mitigation strategies.

## Topics by Week
* **Week 1:** Introduction to Sterilization and Infection Control
* **Week 2:** Fundamentals of Microbiology for Sterilization
* **Week 3:** Saturated Steam Theory and Physics
* **Week 4:** Heat Transfer and Thermal Dynamics in Sterilizers
* **Week 5:** Microbial Inactivation Kinetics: D-Value and Z-Value
* **Week 6:** Lethality (F0) Calculations and Sterilization Cycles
* **Week 7:** Load Types and Packaging Requirements
* **Week 8:** Sterilization Assurance: Biological Indicators
* **Week 9:** Sterilization Assurance: Chemical Indicators and Physical Monitors
* **Week 10:** Steam Sterilizer Components and Operational Principles
* **Week 11:** Introduction to Sterilizer Troubleshooting and Maintenance
* **Week 12:** Regulatory Standards and Best Practices
* **Week 13:** Midterm Review
* **Week 14:** Final Exam Review

## Grading
* Knowledge Checks: 15%
* Assignments and Labs: 30%
* Quizzes: 25%
* Final Exam: 30%

## Policies
* **Attendance:** Regular attendance and participation are expected. Students are responsible for all material covered in missed sessions.
* **Late Submissions:** Assignments submitted after the deadline may incur a penalty, as specified by the instructor.
* **Academic Integrity:** All work submitted must be original. Plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action.
* **Disability Services:** Students requiring accommodations due to a disability should contact the Disability Services office to arrange appropriate support.
* **Safety:** Adherence to all safety protocols and guidelines is mandatory during lab sessions and when discussing equipment procedures.