CER Decontamination and Manual Cleaning 3

Question 1

What does 'soak time' refer to in manual endoscope cleaning?

Accepted Answer

The minimum time the scope should be immersed in enzymatic solution per manufacturer instructions

Answer

Soak time is the manufacturer-specified minimum immersion period in enzymatic solution needed for enzymes to break down organic soil effectively.

Question 2

Why must reusable cleaning brushes be reprocessed between patients?

Accepted Answer

To prevent cross-contamination of microorganisms between patients

Answer

Reusable brushes can harbor pathogens and must be thoroughly cleaned and reprocessed between each patient use to prevent cross-contamination.

Question 3

What action should be taken if visible soil remains in an endoscope channel after the first brushing pass?

Accepted Answer

Continue brushing until all visible soil is removed

Answer

All visible soil must be removed by repeating brushing before proceeding, because retained bioburden can protect microorganisms from disinfection.

Question 4

Which valve or port on the endoscope requires individual brushing during manual cleaning?

Accepted Answer

All removable valves and port openings per manufacturer instructions

Answer

All removable valves, buttons, and port openings must be individually cleaned and brushed as specified by the manufacturer to ensure complete decontamination.

Question 5

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required during the manual cleaning of endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Gloves, fluid-resistant gown, face shield or mask with eye protection

Answer

Manual cleaning generates aerosols and splatter, requiring gloves, fluid-resistant gown, and face/eye protection to protect the reprocessing staff.

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER Decontamination and Manual Cleaning 3