What pressure does a correctly functioning autoclave reach at 134°C?

A correctly functioning autoclave operating at 134°C typically reaches a pressure of approximately 2.2 bar. This pressure is essential to achieve effective sterilization, as it enables the steam to penetrate materials and ensure that organisms are killed. The temperature of 134°C is often used for rapid sterilization processes, where time is critical and the higher pressure helps achieve this.

The use of higher pressure at this temperature reduces the duration of sterilization cycles compared to lower temperatures, enhancing the efficiency of the autoclave operation. Understanding the specific pressure that correlates with certain temperatures is crucial for dental nursing, as it can directly affect the sterilization of instruments and materials used in patient care. Hence, ensuring the autoclave reaches the correct parameters is fundamental for maintaining a safe and sterile environment in a dental practice.