How does glutaraldehyde function in sterilization?

Glutaraldehyde functions in sterilization primarily as a heat-stable solution, which is particularly advantageous for delicate items that cannot withstand high temperatures used in traditional sterilization methods such as autoclaving. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to inactivate a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.

By providing a liquid state for sterilization, glutaraldehyde allows for the treatment of instruments and devices made from materials that might be sensitive to heat or moisture, thus significantly broadening the scope of items that can be safely sterilized in a healthcare setting. Its use is also essential when dealing with medical instruments that require high levels of disinfection but cannot be subjected to thermal methods.

This property of glutaraldehyde makes it an invaluable tool in surgical environments where maintaining strict sterility is critical to prevent infections, especially concerning sensitive surgical instruments and devices.