ABFAS Safety and Infection Control 2

Question 1

Which organism is most commonly responsible for surgical site infections following foot and ankle procedures?

Accepted Answer

Staphylococcus aureus

Answer

Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, is the leading cause of surgical site infections in foot and ankle surgery.

Question 2

What is the recommended duration for surgical hand antisepsis using an alcohol-based hand rub before a foot and ankle procedure?

Accepted Answer

3–5 minutes

Answer

Alcohol-based surgical hand rubs should be applied for 3–5 minutes following manufacturer instructions to achieve adequate antisepsis.

Question 3

A patient develops a fever of 38.6°C on postoperative day 1 after an elective bunionectomy. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Wind (atelectasis)

Answer

Fever within the first 24–48 hours post-op is most commonly due to atelectasis (Wind), not wound infection.

Question 4

Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive foot and ankle surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide (EtO) gas sterilization

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas sterilizes heat-sensitive instruments without thermal damage, making it the preferred method for such items.

Question 5

According to OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standards, when is double-gloving most strongly recommended in foot and ankle surgery?

Accepted Answer

During procedures with high risk of glove perforation such as bone work with wires

Answer

Double-gloving is recommended during high-risk procedures involving sharp instrumentation like K-wires to reduce bloodborne pathogen exposure.

(ABFAS) American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Practice Test