What characteristics define a properly functioning autoclave indicator test result?

• A. Negative results indicate proper sterilization.
• B. Indeterminate results mean stop.
• C. Positive indicator results confirming correct heat and exposure; negative results require re-processing.
• D. No results matter.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that autoclave indicators tell you whether the sterilization cycle reached the right conditions. A positive result means the indicator shows the cycle exposed the load to the required temperature and exposure time, suggesting the load was properly processed. Because of this, you can proceed with using the items, assuming other validation steps are in place. A negative result means the cycle likely didn’t achieve those conditions, so the load must be reprocessed and the cycle re-run, with equipment checked if needed. Indeterminate results aren’t acceptable and are typically retested or reprocessed according to protocol. In practice, chemical indicators show exposure but don’t prove sterility by themselves, which is why biological indicators are used for full confirmation.