Principles and Maintenance Flashcards

Which microorganism class is NOT eliminated by high-level disinfection under standard contact conditions?

Answer: Clostridium difficile spores in high numbers

HLD eliminates vegetative bacteria, most fungal spores, viruses, and mycobacteria, but high concentrations of resistant bacterial endospores like C. difficile may survive.

What is the correct sequence of manual reprocessing steps for a flexible endoscope?

Answer: Pre-clean at bedside, transport, leak test, clean, rinse, HLD, rinse, dry, store

The validated sequence begins with immediate pre-cleaning at bedside, followed by transport, leak testing, manual cleaning, rinsing, HLD, final rinsing, drying, and storage.

Which action should be taken when an endoscope fails a leak test during routine reprocessing?

Answer: Remove the scope from service, label it as damaged, and send for repair before reuse

A failed leak test means the scope's integrity is compromised; it must be removed from service and repaired before it can be safely reprocessed and used.

The term 'bioburden' as it applies to endoscope reprocessing refers to:

Answer: The number and type of microorganisms present on the endoscope before reprocessing

Bioburden is the population of viable microorganisms on the endoscope surface and channels that must be reduced through cleaning and disinfection.

Which statement best describes the role of enzymatic detergents in endoscope reprocessing?

Answer: They break down proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids to facilitate mechanical removal of bioburden

Enzymatic detergents contain proteases, amylases, and lipases that chemically digest organic soil, making it easier to remove mechanically during the cleaning phase.

Why must all channels of a flexible endoscope be flushed with the cleaning solution during manual reprocessing?

Answer: Because biofilm and debris accumulate inside channels that are inaccessible by brushing alone

Internal lumens harbor organic material that brushes cannot fully reach; flushing ensures detergent contacts all surfaces to loosen and remove contamination.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) required during manual cleaning of endoscopes includes:

Answer: Fluid-resistant gown, gloves, eye protection, and a surgical mask at minimum

Manual cleaning generates splashing and aerosols from heavily contaminated instruments, requiring full barrier PPE including fluid-resistant gown, gloves, eye/face protection, and mask.