Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

Is boiling an acceptable method of sterilization?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: False

Boiling is not considered an acceptable method for sterilization because it does not achieve the high temperature and pressure required to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores. Though boiling water can effectively kill many pathogens and is useful for disinfection, it may not eliminate all microorganisms, particularly those that are heat-resistant or present in spore form. Sterilization requires methods that are guaranteed to eliminate all microorganisms, including spores. Techniques like autoclaving, which uses steam under pressure, or chemical sterilization are preferred as they can reliably achieve the necessary conditions for complete sterilization. In contrast, boiling, while helpful for reducing microbial load and disinfecting, does not provide the same level of assurance.