Sterilization and Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real CABT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Sterilization and Infection Control flashcards as text
High-level disinfection (HLD) differs from sterilization in that HLD:
Answer: Eliminates all microorganisms except high numbers of bacterial spores
High-level disinfection eliminates all microorganisms except high concentrations of bacterial spores, whereas sterilization destroys all forms of microbial life.
Which class of chemical indicator provides the most reliable evidence that all critical parameters of a sterilization cycle were met?
Answer: Class 5 integrating indicators
Class 5 integrating indicators respond to all critical sterilization parameters (time, temperature, and sterilant) and provide the highest chemical indicator assurance level.
According to OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, what practice must biomedical technicians follow when handling potentially contaminated equipment?
Answer: Following Standard Precautions with appropriate PPE for all potentially infectious material
OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard mandates Standard Precautions — appropriate PPE must be used whenever handling equipment potentially contaminated with blood or body fluids.
Which water type is recommended for use in steam sterilizers to prevent mineral scaling and equipment damage?
Answer: Distilled or deionized water
Distilled or deionized water is recommended because it lacks minerals found in tap water that cause scaling deposits in sterilizer chambers and on instrument surfaces.
When storing sterile packages after processing, which factor is most critical for maintaining sterility?
Answer: Maintaining packaging integrity and protecting from moisture and physical damage
Sterility is event-related; it depends on the integrity of the packaging rather than time, so intact, undamaged, dry packaging preserves sterility indefinitely.
Glutaraldehyde (2%) used as a high-level disinfectant requires a minimum immersion contact time of approximately:
Answer: 20–45 minutes for high-level disinfection
2% glutaraldehyde requires approximately 20–45 minutes of immersion contact time to achieve high-level disinfection and inactivate all non-spore microorganisms.
What is the primary purpose of the Bowie-Dick test performed in pre-vacuum steam sterilizers?
Answer: It detects air leaks and inadequate air removal that could impair steam penetration
The Bowie-Dick test detects air leaks and inadequate air removal in pre-vacuum sterilizers, since retained air prevents steam from penetrating and achieving sterilization.