Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

When sterilization of a reusable plastic airway is not feasible, high-level disinfection or pasteurization at a temperature of 63°C for 30 minutes serves as an effective alternative to ensure that the device is safe for use. High-level disinfection is a validated process that kills all microorganisms except large numbers of bacterial spores, making it suitable for items that come in contact with mucous membranes but are not intended to penetrate sterile tissue.

Pasteurization is a heat-based process that is effective in reducing the number of viable pathogens without compromising the integrity of the plastic airway. Maintaining a controlled temperature of 63°C for the specified duration ensures sufficient microbial reduction and is a reliable method in clinical practice.

While other options presented may offer some level of microbial reduction, they do not match the efficacy or acceptance in clinical environments compared to high-level disinfection and pasteurization at the specified temperature.