AORN Infection Prevention and Control 3

Question 1

What hand hygiene product is preferred by AORN for routine decontamination before and after patient contact in the perioperative environment?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) when hands are not visibly soiled

Answer

ABHR is preferred over soap and water for most hand hygiene moments because it is more effective against most pathogens and less damaging to skin, except when hands are visibly soiled or after C. diff contact.

Question 2

The Spaulding Classification System categorizes medical devices based on which criterion?

Accepted Answer

Risk of infection based on intended use

Answer

Spaulding's classification (critical, semi-critical, non-critical) categorizes devices by the infection risk associated with how they contact patients, determining the required level of reprocessing.

Question 3

A flexible endoscope used for bronchoscopy is classified as which Spaulding category, and what level of reprocessing is required?

Accepted Answer

Semi-critical — high-level disinfection minimum

Answer

Flexible endoscopes contacting mucous membranes are semi-critical devices requiring at minimum high-level disinfection, though sterilization is preferred when feasible.

Question 4

When performing surgical hand antisepsis with an alcohol-based surgical hand rub, which action is correct?

Accepted Answer

Apply per manufacturer's instructions until hands and forearms are dry

Answer

Alcohol-based surgical hand rubs must be applied to hands and forearms following the manufacturer's directions and allowed to dry completely before donning sterile gloves.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the role of HEPA filtration in OR ventilation systems?

Accepted Answer

It removes particles ≥0.3 microns, including most bacteria and fungal spores

Answer

HEPA filters capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles ≥0.3 microns, effectively removing bacteria, fungal spores, and other potential pathogens from OR air supply.

(AORN) Association of PeriOperative Registered Nurses Practice Test

(AORN) Association of PeriOperative Registered Nurses Practice Test

AORN Infection Prevention and Control 3