FREE CIS Decontamination Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the first step in the decontamination process?
The first step is typically rinsing instruments with cold water to remove gross soil before further cleaning.
What is the primary goal of decontamination in a healthcare setting?
Decontamination aims to remove all organic (e.g., blood, tissue) and inorganic materials to ensure instruments are safe for reuse.
How often should cleaning equipment, such as ultrasonic cleaners and washer-disinfectors, be validated for proper functioning?
Equipment should be validated daily to ensure it is functioning properly and effectively cleaning instruments.
Why is it important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU) when cleaning and decontaminating instruments?
Following the IFU is crucial for compliance, maintaining instrument longevity, and ensuring effective cleaning.
What is the purpose of using an enzymatic detergent in the cleaning process?
Enzymatic detergents help break down organic material, making it easier to remove.
Why is it important to use cold water for the initial rinse in the decontamination process?
Cold water prevents proteins from coagulating and adhering more firmly to the instruments.
Which of the following practices should be avoided during the decontamination process?
Overloading cleaning machines can prevent effective cleaning by reducing the exposure of instruments to cleaning agents and mechanical action.
What is the role of a biological indicator in the decontamination process?
Biological indicators contain spores that test whether the sterilization process is effective in killing all microorganisms.
What is the recommended method for inspecting instruments after cleaning but before sterilization?
Visual inspection under magnification ensures that no debris or residues remain on the instruments.
How does ultrasonic cleaning enhance the decontamination process?
Ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles that dislodge debris from instruments.
Which of the following PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is essential for a Certified Instrument Specialist during decontamination?
Safety goggles, gloves, and a lab coat are essential to protect the specialist from exposure to contaminants and cleaning agents.