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Endoscope Sterilization Methods Questions and Answers Flashcards

6 cards from real CER practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Endoscope Sterilization Methods Questions and Answers flashcards as text

  1. Which low-temperature sterilization method uses hydrogen peroxide gas plasma?

    Answer: STERRAD system (hydrogen peroxide gas plasma)

    The STERRAD system (Advanced Sterilization Products) uses hydrogen peroxide gas plasma to sterilize heat-sensitive instruments including some endoscopes.

  2. Why is steam sterilization (autoclaving) generally NOT used for flexible endoscopes?

    Answer: The high heat and moisture of autoclaving damages the flexible materials and adhesives in endoscopes

    Flexible endoscopes contain heat-sensitive polymers, adhesives, and electronic components that are destroyed by the high temperature and moisture of steam sterilization.

  3. What is the Spaulding classification for flexible endoscopes that enter sterile body cavities (e.g., during ERCP)?

    Answer: Critical — requires sterilization

    Instruments that enter sterile body cavities or the vascular system are classified as critical and require sterilization per the Spaulding classification.

  4. What is a key limitation of ethylene oxide (ETO) sterilization for flexible endoscopes?

    Answer: ETO requires long aeration times (12–24 hours) to remove toxic residues before use

    ETO is effective but requires prolonged aeration to remove toxic residual gas from materials before the endoscope can safely be used.

  5. Peracetic acid immersion sterilization (e.g., SYSTEM 1E/EVOTECH) achieves sterilization at what temperature range?

    Answer: Approximately 50–56°C

    Peracetic acid sterilization systems operate at approximately 50–56°C, making them compatible with heat-sensitive endoscopes.

  6. When should sterilization be considered instead of high-level disinfection for an endoscope?

    Answer: When the endoscope will penetrate a sterile body cavity or contact sterile tissue

    Instruments that penetrate sterile tissues or body cavities are classified as critical and require sterilization per the Spaulding classification.