Decontamination and Manual Cleaning Questions and Answers Flashcards
7 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 7 Decontamination and Manual Cleaning Questions and Answers flashcards as text
What does the term 'biofilm' refer to in the context of endoscope reprocessing?
Answer: A community of microorganisms embedded in a self-produced matrix that adheres to surfaces
Biofilm is a complex community of bacteria encased in a polysaccharide matrix that adheres to channel walls and is highly resistant to disinfectants, making thorough manual cleaning essential to disrupt it.
Which of the following is the correct sequence for processing an endoscope after a procedure?
Answer: Point-of-use pre-clean → transport → leak test → manual clean → HLD
The correct sequence is point-of-use pre-cleaning, then transport to the reprocessing area, then leak testing, then full manual cleaning, then high-level disinfection.
A reprocessing technician discovers a small pinhole perforation in an endoscope's insertion tube during leak testing. What is the correct action?
Answer: Remove the scope from service and send it for repair immediately
Any endoscope that fails a leak test must be immediately removed from service and sent for repair, as internal water infiltration can cause irreparable damage and patient safety risks.
Why is it important to use brushes that match the diameter of the endoscope channel being cleaned?
Answer: An undersized brush will not contact channel walls and miss bioburden
A brush that is too small will not make contact with the full circumference of the channel wall, leaving bioburden that detergent alone cannot remove.
Which statement about enzymatic detergents used in endoscope cleaning is TRUE?
Answer: They are typically single-use and must be discarded after each scope or per manufacturer instructions
Enzymatic detergent solutions are generally intended for single use or per manufacturer guidance because enzymes denature and lose activity after exposure to soil and time.
What is the significance of the 'dwell time' specified by a detergent manufacturer?
Answer: The minimum contact time needed for enzymes to adequately break down organic soil
Dwell time is the minimum soak time required for enzymatic action to sufficiently break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates before brushing.
When cleaning the elevator channel of a duodenoscope, what additional step is required compared to standard forward-viewing endoscopes?
Answer: The elevator mechanism must be actuated while brushing to access the recess beneath the cap
The elevator recess of duodenoscopes is a complex area that requires the elevator to be raised and lowered while brushing to ensure all surfaces are reached.