Which of the following is NOT a commonly used sterilization method?

Chlorine dioxide is not commonly used as a sterilization method in medical settings. While it has effective antimicrobial properties and can be used for disinfection, its application as a reliable sterilization method for medical instruments is not widespread. The other methods listed—steam, hydrogen peroxide plasma, and ethylene oxide—are established and widely accepted techniques for sterilizing surgical instruments and other medical devices.

Steam sterilization utilizes saturated steam under pressure to kill microorganisms, making it a highly effective and efficient method for items that can withstand heat and moisture. Hydrogen peroxide plasma is employed for sterilizing heat-sensitive instruments and offers low-temperature sterilization, making it suitable for a variety of medical devices. Ethylene oxide is another widely used gas for sterilization, particularly for materials sensitive to moisture and heat, allowing for thorough penetration of devices and packaging.

The relative lack of utilization of chlorine dioxide in sterile processing environments distinguishes it from the other choices listed, which are integral to the standard practice of sterilization in healthcare.