What is the main goal of biological indicators in sterilization processes?

Biological indicators play a critical role in sterilization processes by providing definitive feedback on the effectiveness of sterilization methods. They contain live spores of microorganisms that are known to be resistant to the sterilization process being assessed. When these indicators are subjected to the sterilization process, they are tested afterward to determine whether the spores have been killed.

If the biological indicator shows no growth after the sterilization cycle, it confirms that the sterilization process was effective in eliminating the microorganisms present, which is essential for ensuring the safety and sterility of medical instruments and devices. This validation is a crucial step in infection control practices, as it helps to guarantee that procedures are safe and that there is a reduced risk of infection to patients due to improperly sterilized equipment. The reliability of this process contributes to maintaining high standards in medical environments, where patient safety is paramount.