Infection Control and Sterilization Flashcards
7 cards from real CCMA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Infection Control and Sterilization flashcards as text
A medical assistant is caring for a patient with suspected norovirus gastroenteritis. Which hand hygiene method is most effective against norovirus?
Answer: Soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Norovirus is a non-enveloped virus resistant to alcohol-based hand rubs; soap and water is the preferred method as it mechanically removes the virus.
Which of the following is the correct term for the process that eliminates all microorganisms except high-level bacterial spores?
Answer: High-level disinfection
High-level disinfection destroys all microorganisms except large numbers of bacterial spores and is used for semi-critical items like endoscopes.
During venipuncture, the medical assistant sustains a needlestick injury. What is the first immediate action?
Answer: Wash the site thoroughly with soap and water
The immediate first step after a needlestick is to wash the wound site thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission.
Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is appropriate when handling a specimen container with visible blood on the outside?
Answer: Gloves, gown, and face shield
Visible contamination on the outside of a specimen container poses a splash and contact risk, requiring gloves, gown, and face shield at minimum.
Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive flexible endoscopes?
Answer: Ethylene oxide (EtO) gas sterilization
Ethylene oxide gas sterilization operates at low temperatures, making it suitable for heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive equipment like flexible endoscopes.
A healthcare worker is about to enter the room of a patient on contact precautions for MRSA. What PPE must be donned before entering?
Answer: Gloves and gown
Contact precautions require gloves and a gown upon entry to prevent transmission via direct contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces.
Which organization sets the federal standards for bloodborne pathogen exposure control plans in the workplace?
Answer: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) mandates that employers create and implement exposure control plans to protect healthcare workers.