What is the most common reason for failure of steam sterilization?

The most common reason for failure of steam sterilization is often a lack of steam contact with the item being sterilized. Proper steam penetration is crucial for effective sterilization because steam needs to fully contact all surfaces of the instrument or item to ensure the elimination of microorganisms. If steam cannot reach all areas of the load, perhaps due to improper packaging, overloading, or design of the items, then those areas are not sterilized effectively, leading to contamination.

While poor steam quality, inadequate time, and low temperature can also contribute to sterilization failures, they are typically less common when compared to issues of steam contact. For instance, achieving high-quality steam is vital, but if the steam cannot access the instruments due to improper positioning or packaging, the sterilization process will be compromised regardless of the steam quality. Therefore, ensuring that steam is able to reach all items is critical in maintaining effective sterilization practices.