Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real ADAP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Infection Control flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the 'chain of infection' concept relevant to dental infection control?
Answer: The sequence of elements required for an infectious disease to spread from a source to a susceptible host
The chain of infection describes the sequential links—infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, transmission route, portal of entry, and susceptible host—that must all be present for infection to occur.
What is the recommended contact time for most intermediate-level surface disinfectants to be effective?
Answer: The time specified on the product label (usually 1–10 minutes)
Disinfectants must remain visibly wet on surfaces for the full contact time stated on the EPA-registered product label to achieve the claimed efficacy.
Which of the following is an example of engineering controls used to reduce needlestick injuries in dentistry?
Answer: Using safety syringes with resheathing mechanisms
Engineering controls are physical or mechanical devices—such as safety syringes with passive resheathing—that isolate or remove the hazard from the workplace.
A dental office uses dry heat sterilization. What temperature and time combination is typically required for unwrapped instruments?
Answer: 160°C for 1 hour
Dry heat sterilization requires higher temperatures than steam autoclave; the standard cycle is 160°C (320°F) for 1 hour or 170°C for 30 minutes for unwrapped instruments.
Which regulatory agency sets enforceable workplace safety standards for dental infection control in the United States?
Answer: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA enforces legally binding workplace safety regulations, including the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030), while CDC issues guidelines that are advisory.
What is the purpose of the 'Spaulding Classification System' in dental infection control?
Answer: To categorize dental instruments and items by their risk of infection transmission and required level of decontamination
The Spaulding Classification divides items into critical, semi-critical, and non-critical categories based on their contact with tissue and the corresponding decontamination level required.
Which of the following hand hygiene methods is MOST effective immediately before donning sterile surgical gloves?
Answer: Surgical hand antisepsis (scrub or rub) for the manufacturer-recommended time
Surgical hand antisepsis using an approved surgical scrub or alcohol-based surgical hand rub for the full recommended time is required before donning sterile gloves for surgical procedures.