CRCST Practice Exam

Wicking materials are used in sterile processing to allow air removal, steam penetration, and facilitate drying. These materials help in the efficient sterilization of instruments by ensuring that steam can penetrate all surfaces, displacing air that can hinder the sterilization process. By aiding in the drying phase, wicking materials also help prevent the formation of moisture that could lead to rust or other damage to the instruments. Therefore, the correct answer is option D. Options A, B, and C are incorrect: A. Using wicking materials does not directly enhance instrument durability. B. Wicking materials do not play a role in illuminating instrument markings. C. Wicking materials do not maximize steam pressure within the sterilizer; rather, they assist in the sterilization process by allowing air removal, steam penetration, and facilitating drying.