CBIC Sterilization and Disinfection Flashcards

Which level of disinfection is required for semi-critical medical devices that contact mucous membranes but do not penetrate sterile tissue?

Answer: High-level disinfection

Semi-critical devices require high-level disinfection to eliminate all microorganisms except high numbers of bacterial spores.

According to the Spaulding classification, which category includes items that enter sterile tissue or the vascular system?

Answer: Critical

Critical items penetrate sterile body sites and must undergo sterilization to eliminate all forms of microbial life.

What is the minimum exposure time for steam sterilization (gravity cycle) at 250°F (121°C) for wrapped instruments?

Answer: 30 minutes

A gravity displacement steam cycle at 121°C requires a minimum 30-minute exposure time for wrapped items.

Which chemical indicator type confirms that a sterilization process has achieved the required parameters (time, temperature, and steam)?

Answer: Class 5 integrating indicator

Class 5 integrating indicators respond to all critical sterilization variables and correlate to the performance of a biological indicator.

Which of the following is the most reliable method to verify sterilization efficacy?

Answer: Biological indicator using Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Biological indicators using Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the gold standard for verifying steam sterilization efficacy.

What action should be taken when a biological indicator returns a positive result after sterilization?

Answer: Recall all items from that load and investigate

A positive biological indicator indicates sterilization failure; all items from the load must be recalled and the sterilizer taken out of service for investigation.