When is it inappropriate to use a steam autoclave?

Using a steam autoclave is generally inappropriate when sterilizing heat-sensitive devices. Steam autoclaves utilize high temperatures and moisture to achieve sterilization, which can be damaging to items that are sensitive to heat or moisture. This includes a range of medical devices and instruments made from materials that might warp, melt, or otherwise be compromised under these conditions.

For heat-sensitive devices, alternative sterilization methods that do not use high temperatures, such as ethylene oxide gas or low-temperature hydrogen peroxide plasma, are more suitable. These methods allow for effective sterilization without risking damage to the device's integrity or functionality.

When considering other options, sterilizing metal instruments and liquid items are both compatible with steam autoclaving, as metals can generally withstand high temperatures and many liquids can be safely sterilized if packaged correctly for autoclaving. Plastic materials can often be sterilized, but it depends on the specific type of plastic and its heat tolerance; many plastics cannot withstand the temperatures used in a steam autoclave without risk of melting or degradation. However, the key focus in this context is on the heat-sensitive devices, which are explicitly unsuitable for steam autoclave sterilization.