CBSPD - Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution Sterile Storage and Distribution Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to AAMI ST79, which of the following environmental conditions is MOST appropriate for the sterile storage area?

Accepted Answer

Temperature up to 75°F (24°C) and relative humidity not exceeding 70%

Answer

Temperature between 60-65°F (16-18°C) and relative humidity between 30-60%

Answer

Negative air pressure with at least 10 air exchanges per hour

Answer

Temperature up to 80°F (27°C) and relative humidity below 80%

Question 2

A technician is transporting a sterile instrument tray in a covered cart to the operating room. During transport, the cart is bumped, and the tray falls onto the floor. The outer wrap has a small tear. What is the appropriate action to take?

Accepted Answer

Return the tray to the Sterile Processing department for complete reprocessing.

Answer

Inspect the inner wrap; if it is intact, the tray is safe to use.

Answer

Wipe the outer wrap with a disinfectant and deliver it to the operating room.

Answer

Cover the torn area with sterile tape and document the incident.

Question 3

Which of the following is a required practice for storing sterile items on shelving units in a sterile storage area?

Accepted Answer

Storing items at least 2 inches away from outside walls.

Answer

Placing heavy trays on the top shelf for easier access.

Answer

Allowing packages to touch the floor if the bottom shelf is solid.

Answer

Storing items within 6 inches of the ceiling to maximize space.

Question 4

The modern concept that a sterile item is considered sterile until an event occurs to compromise its packaging is known as:

Accepted Answer

Event-related sterility

Answer

Aseptic presentation

Answer

Terminal sterilization

Answer

Time-related sterility

Question 5

When issuing sterile supplies, a technician should use the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) method. What is the primary reason for this practice?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that the oldest sterile supplies are used before they are potentially outdated.

Answer

To ensure the newest items are used first to reduce damage.

Answer

To simplify inventory counting and reordering processes.

Answer

To prioritize items that are used most frequently by the surgical teams.

Question 6

A technician is preparing to transport sterile supplies from a central sterile processing department to a satellite clinic in a separate building. Which of the following is a critical requirement for this process?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the transport vehicle is enclosed and protected from the elements.

Answer

Placing items in an open-air cart for quick identification upon arrival.

Answer

Using a personal vehicle as long as the items are in a plastic bag.

Answer

Mixing sterile and contaminated items in the same cart if separated by a cloth divider.