CER Endoscope Reprocessing Fundamentals 3

Question 1

When using an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER), which step must still be performed manually first?

Accepted Answer

Manual cleaning

Answer

High-level disinfection

Answer

Channel drying

Answer

Final rinse with sterile water

Question 2

Which of the following high-level disinfectants requires a minimum exposure time of 20 minutes at 20°C?

Accepted Answer

2% glutaraldehyde

Answer

0.55% ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA)

Answer

Peracetic acid

Answer

Hydrogen peroxide

Question 3

What is the main advantage of ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) over glutaraldehyde for endoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

It has a shorter exposure time and lower vapor toxicity

Answer

It sterilizes rather than just disinfects

Answer

It requires no personal protective equipment

Answer

It is effective at lower temperatures

Question 4

What action should be taken if an endoscope fails a leak test?

Accepted Answer

Remove it from service and send it for repair

Answer

Proceed with cleaning and disinfection, then retest

Answer

Increase the exposure time during high-level disinfection

Answer

Perform a second leak test using higher pressure

Question 5

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling high-level disinfectants like glutaraldehyde?

Accepted Answer

Chemical-resistant gloves, gown, eye protection, and face shield

Answer

Standard nitrile gloves and a surgical mask

Answer

Standard gloves and gown only

Answer

Eye protection alone is sufficient for brief exposures

Question 6

What is the correct water quality for the final rinse after high-level disinfection?

Accepted Answer

Sterile water or water filtered through a 0.1-micron filter

Answer

Tap water filtered through a 0.2-micron filter

Answer

Distilled water

Answer

Any potable water supply

Question 7

Which of the following best describes 'minimum effective concentration' (MEC) of a high-level disinfectant?

Accepted Answer

The lowest concentration that still achieves the required level of microbial kill

Answer

The concentration at which the solution begins to cause skin irritation

Answer

The concentration recommended by the manufacturer at time of activation

Answer

The maximum concentration allowed by OSHA standards