- The chemical indicator on a sterilization pouch serves to confirm that the items inside have been exposed to the necessary sterilizing conditions such as temperature, steam, or gas.
- It changes color when these conditions are met, providing a clear visual cue that the sterilization process was completed.
- However, it does not guarantee sterility of the contents, only that appropriate parameters were reached.
- This is why Option 1 is correct. The indicator helps staff quickly verify exposure without opening the pouch, ensuring proper processing before clinical use.

Reference: Textbook of Sterilization Techniques, Volume 1, Chapter 3, p. 45