Question

which instruments and equipment must be sterilized? multiple choice
vaginal specula and curettes
stethoscopes and tuning forks
endotracheal tubes
nasal specula
blood pressure cuffs

Explanation:

To determine which instruments must be sterilized, we analyze each option:

• Vaginal specula and curettes: These are used in invasive procedures in the vagina, which is a sterile - required area (as they come into contact with mucous membranes and potentially sterile tissue). Sterilization is necessary to prevent infection.
• Stethoscopes and tuning forks: Stethoscopes are usually cleaned (not necessarily sterilized) as they have limited contact with sterile areas. Tuning forks are also not typically sterilized.
• Endotracheal tubes: While they are used in the airway, they are often single - use or disinfected rather than sterilized in the same way as instruments for vaginal procedures.
• Nasal specula: They are used in the nasal cavity, and while they need cleaning, the level of sterilization required is not as high as for vaginal specula and curettes.
• Blood pressure cuffs: They are cleaned, not sterilized, as they have minimal contact with sterile body areas.

Answer:

A. vaginal specula and curettes