CBET Sterilization and Infection Control Equipment

Question 1

What is the standard sterilization temperature and time for a gravity displacement steam autoclave at 121°C?

Accepted Answer

15 minutes

Answer

Gravity displacement autoclaves operating at 121°C (250°F) require a minimum of 15 minutes at that temperature to achieve sterilization.

Question 2

Which Spaulding classification category requires sterilization rather than just high-level disinfection?

Accepted Answer

Critical items

Answer

Critical items enter sterile tissue or the vascular system and must be sterilized to eliminate all microorganisms including spores.

Question 3

What is the primary biological indicator used to validate steam sterilization processes?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores

Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus is the most resistant organism to moist heat and is the standard biological indicator for steam sterilization validation.

Question 4

A BIOMED technician is testing an EtO (ethylene oxide) sterilizer. Which parameter is NOT critical to monitor during the EtO cycle?

Accepted Answer

UV light exposure

Answer

EtO sterilization depends on gas concentration, temperature, humidity, and exposure time — UV light plays no role in this chemical sterilization process.

Question 5

What does a positive result on a Bowie-Dick test indicate?

Accepted Answer

Air removal failure in the pre-vacuum autoclave

Answer

A positive (failed) Bowie-Dick test indicates that air was not properly removed from the chamber, which would prevent steam penetration and sterilization.

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET Sterilization and Infection Control Equipment