Which sterilization monitoring device verifies the effectiveness of an extended sterilization cycle?

The correct choice for verifying the effectiveness of an extended sterilization cycle is not accurately reflected in the provided options. In the context of sterilization monitoring, biological indicators, specifically using microorganisms like Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus atrophaeus, are considered the gold standard for verifying that sterilization processes have achieved their intended effect.

Geobacillus stearothermophilus is particularly relevant for steam sterilization and is used to monitor cycles that operate at higher temperatures, while Bacillus atrophaeus is typically used for monitoring ethylene oxide sterilization. Both of these options are biological indicators that are essential in confirming that the sterilization process effectively eliminates resistant spores.

Class 5 chemical indicators are designed to provide a verification of specific parameters during the sterilization process but are not sufficient on their own to confirm the overall effectiveness of the cycle over extended durations. They are generally not used to determine the success of sterilization in complex protocols.

Given that the correct method to assess the effectiveness of an extended cycle relies on biological indicators like Geobacillus stearothermophilus or Bacillus atrophaeus, which are not explicitly identified as correct answers in the choices, it may seem that "None of the above