Which 'single use' item can be reused following suitable sterilisation?

Aspirators are typically designed as single-use items but can indeed be cleaned and sterilized for reuse in specific cases. They are often made from materials that can withstand the sterilization process without degrading, allowing them to be safely repurposed. This practice helps reduce waste and can be cost-effective.

In contrast, syringes are generally designed for a single use to prevent cross-contamination and infection. Surgical gloves are also strictly single-use, as they are intended to maintain sterility during procedures and prevent transmission of pathogens. Polymer impression trays can sometimes be reused, but they require thorough cleaning and disinfection before reuse, rather than sterilization, which differentiates them from items that can be sterilized without issue. Therefore, the aspirator stands out as the item that can be safely sterilized and reused in compliance with infection control standards.