If a patient is experiencing adverse reactions from ethylene oxide sterilization, what alternatives exist?

The correct alternative for addressing adverse reactions from ethylene oxide sterilization is gamma irradiation. Gamma irradiation is widely recognized as an effective and reliable method for sterilizing medical devices and materials. It uses high-energy gamma rays to kill microorganisms without the risk of residual toxicity associated with ethylene oxide, making it a safe option for sensitive applications, including in healthcare settings.

Although high-pressure water hosing is mentioned as an alternative, it is not considered a sterilization method. Instead, it may only clean surfaces and remove contaminants but does not guarantee the elimination of microorganisms to the level required for sterilization. In contrast, gamma irradiation achieves the necessary microbiological sterility, which is crucial for ensuring patient safety in medical settings.

Electron beam sterilization, while being effective, is less commonly used in comparison to gamma irradiation and may not be as widely available or suitable for all types of materials or devices. Therefore, while both gamma irradiation and electron beam methods provide alternatives, the more established and accepted choice in practice, especially when considering patients with sensitivities, is gamma irradiation.