Final answer:
Flash sterilization is a method used to quickly sterilize heat-stable medical and laboratory equipment. It involves exposing the items to high heat and high pressure for a short period of time, like using an autoclave.
Step-by-step explanation:
Flash sterilization is a method used to quickly sterilize heat-stable medical and laboratory equipment. This process involves exposing the items to high heat and high pressure for a short period of time.
The purpose of flash sterilization is to quickly sterilize items that are needed urgently and cannot withstand the longer sterilization times required by other methods. It is commonly used in emergency situations or in situations where immediate sterilization is necessary.
One example of flash sterilization is the use of an autoclave, which is a device that uses steam to sterilize objects. The items are placed in the autoclave, which is then sealed and heated to a high temperature and pressure for a short period of time, typically around 3-10 minutes. This rapid exposure to heat and pressure effectively kills all microorganisms present on the items, ensuring that they are sterile.