AAMA Infection Control, Medical Asepsis, and Sterilization 3

Question 1

In the chain of infection, which link does hand hygiene primarily interrupt?

Accepted Answer

Mode of transmission

Answer

Hand hygiene removes pathogens from hands and interrupts the mode of transmission, preventing pathogens from reaching a new host.

Question 2

Which disinfection level is required for a thermometer used in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Intermediate-level disinfection

Answer

Oral thermometers are semicritical items that contact mucous membranes and require intermediate-level disinfection at minimum.

Question 3

What does the term 'sanitization' mean in the context of instrument processing?

Accepted Answer

Reducing microbial count to a safe level and removing debris

Answer

Sanitization (cleaning) reduces microbial count and removes gross soil/debris; it is the first step before disinfection or sterilization.

Question 4

A medical assistant notices a package sterilized 45 days ago. What should they do?

Accepted Answer

Inspect the package integrity and chemical indicator before use

Answer

Sterility is event-related; a package should be inspected for intact seals, no moisture, and a color-changed chemical indicator before use.

Question 5

Which type of precaution should be implemented for a patient with influenza?

Accepted Answer

Droplet precautions

Answer

Influenza is spread via large respiratory droplets (>5 microns), requiring droplet precautions including surgical masks within 3–6 feet.

(AAMA) American Association of Medical Assistants Certified Practice Test