Indiana PSI Nail Technician Practice Test

Which of the following is a device that uses steam to sterilize equipment and deactivate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores?

1. Autoclave

2. Steamer

3. Barbicide

4. Cleanser

The correct answer is: Autoclave

An autoclave is an essential piece of equipment in the nail technician and broader beauty industry because it uses steam under pressure to effectively sterilize tools and implements. The process in an autoclave raises the temperature of water to produce steam, which then penetrates items placed inside. This high level of heat and moisture kills microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, making it one of the most reliable methods for achieving sterilization. The other options serve different purposes. A steamer, while useful for facial treatments and hydration, does not achieve the same level of sterilization as an autoclave. Barbicide is a disinfecting solution that is effective for sanitizing surfaces and tools but does not sterilize in the way that steam under pressure does. A cleanser generally refers to a product used to remove dirt and impurities and is not designed for sterilization. Thus, the autoclave is specifically designed for the kind of thorough sterilization needed in a professional nail salon.