Infection Control & Safety Standards Flashcards
7 cards from real CDT 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 & Safety Standards flashcards as text
Which autoclave monitoring method provides the MOST reliable verification that sterilization conditions were achieved?
Answer: Biological indicators using Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores
Biological indicators (spore tests) are the gold standard for sterilization monitoring because they directly test the lethality of the process against the most resistant microorganisms.
In a dental laboratory, where should sharps containers be placed to minimize risk of injury?
Answer: At or below waist level, near the point of use, with the opening away from the body
Sharps containers should be at or below waist height near the point of use, with one-handed access to prevent reach-over injuries when disposing of sharps.
Which chemical is commonly used in the dental laboratory for model disinfection but is corrosive to metal and must be used with adequate ventilation?
Answer: Sodium hypochlorite (bleach)
Sodium hypochlorite is an effective and inexpensive disinfectant but is corrosive to metals, produces irritating fumes, and requires adequate ventilation during use.
What is the purpose of the 'Exposure Control Plan' required by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard?
Answer: To outline the facility's plan to eliminate or minimize employee exposures to bloodborne pathogens
The Exposure Control Plan is a written document that identifies tasks involving exposure risk and describes the protective measures the employer will implement to protect workers.
When trimming acrylic on a lathe without water spray, which hazard is of PRIMARY concern?
Answer: Acrylic dust inhalation and fire risk from flammable dust
Dry acrylic trimming generates fine respirable dust that poses inhalation hazards and can also be combustible when concentrated, requiring dust collection and respiratory protection.
A dental laboratory receives a case with no disinfection documentation from the clinical office. According to standard infection control protocol, the technician should:
Answer: Treat the case as potentially infectious and disinfect before beginning work
Standard precautions require treating all patient materials as potentially infectious, so cases without disinfection documentation must be disinfected before laboratory work begins.
Which personal protective equipment item is MOST important for preventing conjunctival exposure when spraying disinfectants on laboratory surfaces?
Answer: Safety goggles or face shield
Eye and face protection (goggles or face shield) is critical when spraying disinfectants to prevent chemical splash to the conjunctiva, which can cause severe irritation or chemical burns.