Which device found in the decontamination room uses cavitation?

Which device found in the decontamination room uses cavitation?

• A. Ultrasonic Cleaner
• B. Autoclave
• C. Sterilizer Cabinet
• D. Washer

Answer: (A)

Cavitation happens when high-frequency ultrasonic energy creates and then collapses tiny bubbles in a cleaning liquid, producing powerful micro-jets that loosen soil from instruments. An ultrasonic cleaner uses this mechanism to clean items with complex shapes and hard-to-reach areas, which is why it’s the device in the decontamination room that relies on cavitation. The autoclave uses steam under pressure for sterilization, not cavitation; a washer relies on detergents and mechanical action with water jets rather than bubble cavitation; and a sterilizer cabinet is for storing sterile items, not cleaning.

Cavitation happens when high-frequency ultrasonic energy creates and then collapses tiny bubbles in a cleaning liquid, producing powerful micro-jets that loosen soil from instruments. An ultrasonic cleaner uses this mechanism to clean items with complex shapes and hard-to-reach areas, which is why it’s the device in the decontamination room that relies on cavitation. The autoclave uses steam under pressure for sterilization, not cavitation; a washer relies on detergents and mechanical action with water jets rather than bubble cavitation; and a sterilizer cabinet is for storing sterile items, not cleaning.