Questions: How does sterilization help control the spread of infections in hospitals?

The answer is the second one: It kills all of the organisms on surgical instruments.

Explanation for each option:

1. It reduces the number of pathogens in the air.
   This statement is incorrect in the context of sterilization. Sterilization specifically refers to the process of eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, from surfaces or instruments. While air filtration systems and other methods can reduce airborne pathogens, sterilization is not typically used for air.

2. It kills all of the organisms on surgical instruments.
   This statement is correct. Sterilization is a critical process in hospitals to ensure that surgical instruments and other medical tools are free from all microorganisms. This is essential to prevent infections during surgical procedures and other medical interventions.

3. It prevents the growth of organisms on the hands.
   This statement is incorrect. While hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, sterilization is not the method used for hands. Instead, handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers is recommended to reduce microbial presence on the skin.

4. It provides a barrier between doctors and patients.
   This statement is incorrect. Sterilization does not provide a physical barrier. Instead, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns serve as barriers to prevent the transmission of infections between healthcare workers and patients.

In summary, sterilization is a vital process in hospitals for ensuring that surgical instruments and other medical equipment are free from all microorganisms, thereby preventing the spread of infections.