Which statement best summarizes Ethylene oxide's use and hazard?

Which statement best summarizes Ethylene oxide's use and hazard?

• A. Used for sterilization; mutagenic and carcinogenic
• B. Used for cooling; safe and non-toxic
• C. Used for cleaning; nonhazardous
• D. Used for refrigeration; inert

Answer: (A)

Ethylene oxide is used primarily as a low‑temperature sterilant for heat‑sensitive medical devices and supplies. Its gaseous form penetrates packaging and complex instruments, enabling effective sterilization without heat damage. But it is hazardous: it is mutagenic and carcinogenic, and exposure carries serious health risks, so strict controls, ventilation, monitoring, and aeration after sterilization are essential. The other statements misstate its use (cooling, cleaning, refrigeration) and its safety profile (safe and non‑toxic, inert), so they don’t fit.

Ethylene oxide is used primarily as a low‑temperature sterilant for heat‑sensitive medical devices and supplies. Its gaseous form penetrates packaging and complex instruments, enabling effective sterilization without heat damage. But it is hazardous: it is mutagenic and carcinogenic, and exposure carries serious health risks, so strict controls, ventilation, monitoring, and aeration after sterilization are essential. The other statements misstate its use (cooling, cleaning, refrigeration) and its safety profile (safe and non‑toxic, inert), so they don’t fit.