Which type of equipment is typically used to sterilize heat-sensitive items?

The choice of a gas sterilizer for sterilizing heat-sensitive items is appropriate because it utilizes low temperatures to achieve sterilization, making it suitable for materials that cannot withstand the high heat of steam or dry heat sterilization methods. Gas sterilizers commonly use ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide, both of which penetrate packaging and effectively destroy microorganisms without damaging sensitive instruments or items.

This method is particularly advantageous for sterilizing items made of plastics, electrical devices, or other materials that might be adversely affected by traditional high-temperature sterilization methods. The gaseous environment allows for effective penetration and is capable of sterilizing complex instruments with intricate designs.

In contrast, steam autoclaves use high-pressure steam and require higher temperatures, which could damage heat-sensitive materials. Sonic cleaners are primarily used for cleaning instruments rather than sterilization, and dry heat sterilizers, while effective, also subject items to high temperatures which are not suitable for heat-sensitive items. Thus, the gas sterilizer is the appropriate equipment in this scenario for ensuring the integrity of delicate items while effectively achieving sterilization.