ADEX Infection Control Principles 2

Question 1

Which CDC transmission-based precaution category is used for patients with pulmonary tuberculosis?

Accepted Answer

Airborne precautions

Answer

Pulmonary TB requires airborne precautions because M. tuberculosis spreads via small droplet nuclei that remain suspended in air.

Question 2

What is the minimum contact time required for a hospital-grade intermediate-level surface disinfectant to be effective?

Accepted Answer

The manufacturer's stated wet-contact time

Answer

The EPA-registered disinfectant must remain visibly wet on the surface for the full manufacturer-specified contact time to achieve the labeled kill claim.

Question 3

A dental hygienist sustains a needlestick from a patient with unknown HIV status. What is the FIRST action to take?

Accepted Answer

Flush the wound with soap and water for several minutes

Answer

Immediate decontamination by washing with soap and water is the first step before any reporting or prophylaxis decisions.

Question 4

Which item classification requires sterilization before reuse on another patient?

Accepted Answer

Critical items that penetrate soft tissue or bone

Answer

Spaulding's classification defines critical items as those that penetrate tissue or bone, requiring sterilization to eliminate all microbial life including spores.

Question 5

The biological indicator used to verify autoclave sterilization effectiveness contains spores of which organism?

Accepted Answer

Bacillus atrophaeus or Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus (steam) and Bacillus atrophaeus (dry heat) spores are the most heat-resistant test organisms used in biological indicators.

ADEX - Dental Hygiene Exam Practice Test

ADEX - Dental Hygiene Exam Practice Test

ADEX Infection Control Principles 2