CBET Sterilization and Infection Control Equipment 4

Question 1

Which biological indicator organism is used to validate ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization cycles?

Accepted Answer

Bacillus atrophaeus

Answer

Bacillus atrophaeus spores are the standard biological indicator for EtO sterilization validation.

Question 2

A steam autoclave fails its Bowie-Dick test. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Air entrapment in the chamber

Answer

The Bowie-Dick test detects air removal failures; a failed test indicates residual air is preventing steam penetration.

Question 3

What is the primary advantage of low-temperature hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization over EtO?

Accepted Answer

No toxic residuals requiring aeration

Answer

Hydrogen peroxide plasma leaves no toxic residuals, eliminating the lengthy aeration period required after EtO sterilization.

Question 4

Which parameter is NOT directly monitored during a standard steam sterilization cycle?

Accepted Answer

Humidity

Answer

Standard steam sterilization monitoring focuses on temperature, pressure, and time; humidity is a critical parameter for EtO, not steam cycles.

Question 5

An ultrasonic cleaner used for pre-sterilization cleaning operates primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Acoustic cavitation

Answer

Ultrasonic cleaners work via acoustic cavitation, where rapidly forming and collapsing bubbles dislodge debris from instrument surfaces.

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test