CER High-Level Disinfection Processes 3

Question 1

Ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) has what primary advantage over glutaraldehyde for high-level disinfection?

Accepted Answer

Faster acting at room temperature with less irritation

Answer

Lower cost per gallon

Answer

Broader spectrum of kill including prions

Answer

Does not require MRC testing

Question 2

When performing high-level disinfection in an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER), which step must be verified manually before loading the scope?

Accepted Answer

That thorough manual cleaning and leak testing have been completed

Answer

That the HLD cycle temperature is set correctly

Answer

That the AER drain cycle has finished

Answer

That the scope serial number matches the AER log

Question 3

A flexible endoscope fails a leak test. What should be done before proceeding with HLD?

Accepted Answer

Remove the scope from service and send it for repair

Answer

Proceed with HLD and inform biomedical engineering afterward

Answer

Perform HLD with the cap removed to allow fluid drainage

Answer

Re-test the scope in clean water to confirm the leak

Question 4

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling glutaraldehyde HLD solutions?

Accepted Answer

Gloves, gown, and eye/face protection at minimum

Answer

Gloves only

Answer

Gloves and face shield only

Answer

No PPE required if the basin is covered

Question 5

What is the purpose of rinsing an endoscope thoroughly with sterile or filtered water after HLD?

Accepted Answer

To remove residual disinfectant that could harm patients

Answer

To rehydrate the scope's internal channels

Answer

To lower the surface temperature before storage

Answer

To activate antimicrobial properties of the scope materials

Question 6

Which statement about peracetic acid (PAA) used in AERs is correct?

Accepted Answer

PAA is typically single-use and disposed of after each cycle

Answer

PAA must be stored refrigerated between uses

Answer

PAA can be reused for up to 14 days like glutaraldehyde

Answer

PAA requires neutralization before drain disposal

Question 7

At what point should a logbook entry for HLD processing be completed?

Accepted Answer

Immediately after each scope is processed

Answer

At the end of each shift as a batch record

Answer

Only when the HLD solution is changed

Answer

When the scope is returned to the storage cabinet