CCHT Dialyzer Reprocessing and Reuse 2

Question 1

Which chemical is most commonly used as a germicide during manual dialyzer reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Peracetic acid

Answer

Peracetic acid (PAA) is the most commonly used germicide for dialyzer reprocessing because it is effective, relatively safe, and dissipates rapidly. Formaldehyde was historically used but has largely been replaced due to health hazards.

Question 2

What is the minimum acceptable total cell volume (TCV) for a reprocessed dialyzer to be approved for reuse?

Accepted Answer

80% of the original TCV

Answer

AAMI guidelines require that a reprocessed dialyzer retain at least 80% of its original total cell volume (TCV). A dialyzer that falls below this threshold must be discarded because reduced fiber volume indicates inadequate clearance capability.

Question 3

A technician notices the reuse count on a dialyzer has reached the facility's maximum allowed reuses. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Discard the dialyzer and document the disposal

Answer

When a dialyzer reaches the facility's maximum reuse count, it must be discarded regardless of TCV or visual appearance. The reuse limit is a safety boundary set by the facility based on manufacturer data, regulatory standards, and clinical policy.

Question 4

Before returning a reprocessed dialyzer to a patient, which test must be performed to ensure patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Germicide residual test

Answer

A germicide residual test must be performed to confirm that germicide levels in the dialyzer are below the safe threshold before use. Exposing a patient to residual germicide can cause serious adverse reactions including hemolysis and cardiovascular compromise.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the purpose of pressure testing a dialyzer during reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

To verify membrane integrity and detect fiber bundle leaks

Answer

Pressure testing during reprocessing verifies the integrity of the dialyzer membrane. A drop in pressure indicates that fibers are broken or leaking, which would allow blood and dialysate to mix during treatment—a serious patient safety risk.

CCHT - Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician Practice Test

CCHT - Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician Practice Test

CCHT Dialyzer Reprocessing and Reuse 2