Indicator strips are chemical test strips used in sterilization monitoring to verify autoclave effectiveness. Type 5 steam indicators confirm all parameters (time, temperature, pressure) met—color changes from yellow/white to black/purple signal successful sterilization. Essential for hospitals, dental clinics, and labs, they ensure medical instruments achieve sterility, preventing infections. Quick visual confirmation differentiates processed vs. unprocessed loads, meeting ISO 11140-1 standards for healthcare compliance.